For centuries, parents across cultures have sung lullabies to soothe children to sleep. But beyond tradition and sentimental charm, there is real science behind why these gentle songs are so effective.
Behavioral sleep psychologist Dr. Jade Wu explains that lullabies provide babies with multiple comforting cues. Their slow, steady melodies resemble the rhythms of the womb, such as a mother’s heartbeat, creating a sense of familiarity that helps infants feel safe. This soothing atmosphere lowers stress and prepares the body for rest. The very act of singing also signals security: if a caregiver is relaxed enough to sing, it reassures the baby that no danger is near.
Neuroscience backs up these effects. Studies show that a parent’s voice activates areas of a child’s brain associated with comfort and attachment, thereby strengthening the emotional bond between caregiver and child. Physical closeness amplifies this connection. Snuggling while singing can stimulate the release of oxytocin, known as the “love hormone,” which promotes trust, connection, and emotional well-being. While soft background music can calm babies, Dr. Wu notes that singing is uniquely powerful because the vibrations from a parent’s voice soothe babies much like the gentle rocking motion of a cradle. The calming power of lullabies also transcends language. A Harvard study found that infants relaxed not only to familiar songs but also to lullabies from foreign cultures. Researchers say these songs share universal traits ? slow tempos, rocking rhythms, and soothing tones ? that humans are naturally wired to find comforting.
Whether it’s the classic “Rock-a-Bye Baby,” a Korean jajangga, or a simple hum made up on the spot, lullabies are more than music. They combine biology, psychology, and love in an age-old practice that continues to help little ones drift peacefully into sleep.
Yesel Kang Copy Editor teen/1757053434/1613367750
1. What sounds do lullabies resemble that make babies feel safe?
2. Who is the behavioral sleep psychologist mentioned in the article?
3. When did the Harvard study find infants could relax to foreign lullabies?
4. Where do vibrations from a parent’s voice have a soothing effect similar to rocking?
1. Do you think parents should continue singing lullabies even in a world full of technology and recorded music? Why or why not?
2. Should lullabies be considered more important for bonding than for sleep?
3. Do you believe the calming effect of lullabies comes more from science or from tradition?
4. How important is it for parents to pass down cultural lullabies to their children?
For centuries, parents across cultures have sung lullabies to soothe children to sleep. But beyond tradition and sentimental charm, there is real science behind why these gentle songs are so effective.
