Babies are born musical and music therapy in the NICU is the intentional use of music to support you and your baby and your unique journey.

You can use music and voice to:

• support attachment and bonding between you and your baby
• support your baby’s development
• support settling
• support routine

Using your voice and music therapy in intensive care

When your baby is in NICU; singing, humming, talking or reading a story can be a lovely way to connect and provide comfort to your little one.

We know that this can be an intimidating environment to start singing, start by humming and remember, a music therapist is available to support you, just ask your nurse to contact us.

Using your voice and music therapy to support settling

Babies love hearing their parent's voices, singing or humming can be a lovely way to settle and soothe your baby while they are in hospital.

Your baby already knows your voice from in utero.

Humming and gentle singing can help your baby feel safe and comforted in the environment of the NICU.

You can try a familiar lullaby or song and combine this with positive touch or a cuddle.

Using your voice and music therapy for play

Once your baby is well and has reached corrected term age (37+ weeks), they might be having short periods of awake time. This is a great time to start using songs for “play”.

Ready for play cues include:

• gentle eye contact 
• vocalising 
• calm facial expression
• smooth arm and leg movements

Compared to lullabies, play songs can be brighter and bouncier and allow space for your baby to interact with you.

It is important to watch your baby’s cues during play time to notice if they are tired or would like a break.

Needing a break cues include:

• looking away
• avoiding eye contact
• yawning
• crying
• stiff or jerky arm or leg movements.

If you have any questions about singing to your baby or using your voice, the music therapist is available to support you, just ask your nurse to contact us.

Using recorded music

Every baby has different needs and responds differently. It is important to assess how your baby reacts to recorded music.

It is also important to be aware of using recorded music when sharing a room with another baby.

It is best to avoid using your phone or YouTube, as there can be loud and unpredictable interruptions (such as ads or phone ringing) that might be stressful for your baby

If you are using recorded music during awake time, limit the music to 10-15 minute periods, and while observing your baby for signs of overstimulation.

Recorded music can be great for your baby, but it will never replace your voice and your interactions with your baby.

If you would like to introduce recorded music to your baby while on Butterfly ward, please ask you nurse to make a referral for a music therapy assessment.