On today’s episode, I am joined by registered music therapist, Elizabeth McLean, who brings her expertise in music therapy practice and research, specifically within perinatal and early parenting contexts. With over a decade of experience working clinically with infants, children, and their families in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) and pediatric hospital settings, Elizabeth sheds light on the incredible role music plays in the early stages of a child's life.

We dive into how musical engagement can positively impact the development of premature babies and how music therapy can nurture the parent-child bond. Whether you're in the NICU or at home with your little ones, Elizabeth explains how music supports parents in the emergence of their parental identity, helping them to bond with their babies and feel more confident in their parenting journey.

We also cover:

• The incredible benefits of engaging musically with infants, especially in NICU and pediatric care settings
• How music helps soothe and support your babies' development, even if they were born prematurely
• Practical, easy ways for parents (musically inclined or not) to integrate music into their daily routines
• How music can help with stress management and identity formation for parents
• A beautiful piece of music Elizabeth shares at the end of the episode that you won't want to miss!

Whether you're a expectant parent or caring for multiples, Elizabeth provides tangible insights and practical tips for weaving music into your daily life. The best part? You don't need any formal musical training to get started!

Tune in to learn:

• How music therapy supports both child(ren) and parent(s)
• Ways to start using music with your babies, even if you're shy or unsure of where to begin
• The transformative role music can play in your parenting journey

Stay till the end! Make sure to stick around till the end for a special musical treat that Elizabeth shares with us — a piece that is sure to touch your heart and inspire you in your own musical journey with your little ones.

Connect with Elizabeth McLean:
Website: https://www.vitalvoicesmusictherapy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitalvoices.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vitalvoicesmusictherapy/

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB