In this uplifting episode, we explore why music isn’t just a 'nice extra' in early years - it’s a neuroscientific powerhouse that builds the brain, boosts learning and supports development in ways no other activity can. Joined by the brilliant Sue Newman from Boogie Mites, we dive into how music and movement light up young children’s brains, laying the groundwork for language, self-regulation, memory and even maths. You’ll hear how musical play isn't about perfection – but, what is it about? Press play to find out :) This is your invitation to put music at the heart of your EYFS practice - not as a Friday treat, but as a daily, brain-building essential. This episode will leave you dancing away with inspiration, backed by science and full of practical ideas. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: • How music shapes the developing brain – and why it’s so closely linked to language, memory, motor skills and executive function • Why music is more than a 'creative area' – it’s a tool for self-regulation, belonging, emotional regulation and learning across the EYFS curriculum • The power of rhythm, repetition and movement – how Boogie Mites programmes use neuroscience-backed techniques to strengthen neural pathways • How music supports early literacy and phonological awareness – laying strong foundations for reading before formal instruction even begins • Why music is calming for the brain – and how it helps co-regulation for both children and adults • How to build musical confidence as a practitioner – even if you don’t see yourself as ‘musical’ • Practical ways to embed music across your day, including whether to play background music as children play – or not. And that’s just an overview! I’m Michelle Hague, founder of HEYD (Early Years School Improvement Specialists) and host of the Early Years Impact podcast. I’m Michelle Hague, founder of HEYD (Early Years School Improvement Specialists) and host of the Early Years Impact podcast. You can contact me directly: michellehague@heyd.uk Visit heyd.co.uk for more on our early years school improvement consultancy offers Sponsored by outdoor.classrooms and their SENDCO Nature Initiative, which is proudly supported by HEYD. I know this episode will inspire you to connect more with Sue Newman, who you can also find at boogiemites.co.uk: After a giving up a business career to look after my children, Sue returned to my childhood love of music and set up Boogie Mites as co-founder with Harriet Thomas in 2007. She is delighted to spend every day leading our passionate team of teachers at Boogie Mites as we share the joy and learning power of music every day. Our mission is to equip early educators and parents with the knowledge, confidence and resources to make active, creative music making part of each and every day. Sue still does some teaching, she presents at conferences, write articles, manages business strategy planning, programme compilation, training provision, local authority contracts, team and customer relationships. She has many partners/ collaborators, including Neuromuscial Educator Dr Anita Collins, Dr Kathryn Murray and children’s author Michael Rosen. We have a vision of making a real difference to early years education globally through the power of music, starting children on a lifelong love of music, language and literacy, with all the associated wellness and cognitive benefits, wellbeing and health benefits.
