Why Environmental Sounds?
⭐What Are Environmental Sounds? ⭐
Environmental sounds are the everyday noises that surround us in our daily routines. Recognising these sounds is a crucial skill learnt in the initial phase, allowing children to comprehend their surroundings better. For instance, children may identify sounds like a phone ringing or a knock at the door, as these are common environmental sounds indicating specific actions – someone calling or visiting. There are numerous environmental sounds to notice at home, like a boiling kettle, flushing the toilet, or closing the door. Likewise, outdoors, one can hear cars passing, planes flying, sirens wailing, or dogs barking.
⭐Why Environmental Sounds?⭐
Discerning various sounds in their surroundings enables children to focus on sounds and become more sound-conscious. This also enhances their listening and attention abilities, crucial for learning and later on will help with Phonics.
⭐When to Begin?⭐
Between the ages of 12-18 months, babies start to enhance their awareness of sound patterns through speech, music, songs, and environmental sounds. Their understanding of sounds expands, such as recognising and imitating animal and vehicle sounds. At this stage, they enjoy playing games, listening to songs, dancing to music, and engaging with adults reading aloud.
⭐What Can I do?⭐
There are various ways to support your child in learning environmental sounds, whether through daily interactions or targeted activities. Here are some ideas to enhance this skill:
Point out different noises in your surroundings, both at home and outdoors, using phrases like ‘Someone is calling me!’
Take a listening walk with your child. Every time you hear a noise, stop, ask to listen, and identify the sound.
Engage your child with simple questions like ‘I heard something, what was that sound?’ and ‘Can you hear the siren wailing?’ to focus on sounds.
Encourage your child to create sounds as well, not just listen to them! Can they tap on an object, play music, or press the kettle button to hear it boil?