Tablets and Tambourines: Technology Equalises Access for Early Years Children

Nearly half (48%) of musical pre-schoolers are already making music on phones or tablets, our Sound of the Next Generation (SONG) report found.

We're inviting the government, parents and schools to consider the controlled use of digital devices in order to equalise access to music making for the next generation.

Toddlers are now reaching for tablets as much as tambourines when it comes to music making, according to our SONG report.

The research, which explores young people’s relationship with music to mark our 25^th anniversary, has found that the music-making habits of the youngest of society are shifting away from more traditional forms. 

More than ever, the early years age group are adopting forms of music making that are more reflective of the digital age, with apps such as Bloom, where budding musicians can unique melodies by simply tapping the screen, Trope, the app in which ever-evolving soundscapes are made through tracing abstract shapes onto a screen, and Singing Fingers, where toddlers can paint with sound making up their creative arsenal.

The research also found that music is highly valued amongst this age group, with 89% of parents believing that music will help their child’s development and 90% saying that enjoying music together is an important way to bond with their child. And yet, there is a lack of confidence in the ability of schools to meet young people’s musical needs, with only 11% of parents feeling like their child will get enough musical education when they’re at school.           

Matt Griffiths, CEO of Youth Music, says, “The conversation surrounding mobile phone usage for children has escalated recently, as a new school year fast approaches. Whilst we echo concerns around safeguarding and screen time, we also think it’s important to listen to the youngest members of our society. Our research shows that they are increasingly using technology to engage with music, so we have an exciting opportunity to listen and act. It’s not a case of ‘either or’ - we believe technology can sit in harmony alongside more traditional methods of music making, and ultimately equalise access to music for more young people.”