09/12/2025
Listening to ‘oldies’ together is a fantastic way for grandparents to connect with their grandkids, while also helping them practice speech and language skills. Learn more in this article written by our friend Nancy Polow, director of Suburban Speech Center in Short Hills, New Jersey, and published recently in the New Jersey Jewish News...
As a grandparent of three, music has a way of crossing generations. For many grandparents, the songs they grew up with carry stories, rhythm, and joy. For young children, those same tunes can be a playful gateway into speech and language.
I see grandparents stepping into full- or part-time caregiving roles, actively engaging in their grandchildren's learning. By sharing "oldies" with their grandchildren, grandparents can naturally encourage communication, listening, and vocabulary growth.
Oldies music such as Motown, rock 'n' roll, and '50s ballads, contain clear, repetitive lyrics that are easy for children to catch onto. Strong rhythm and predictable patterns, which support speech, timing and turn-taking. Rich vocabulary that introduces words they might not hear in everyday conversation. These features make it easier for kids to imitate sounds, remember phrases, and join in.
There are many simple ways to use oldies for speech and language development. First, sing together, but pause on purpose. When you're singing a familiar chorus, stop right before the last word or phrase. Example: "You are my sunshine, my only ... " (pause), let your grandchild fill it in. This encourages word retrieval and confidence.
Also, add movement! Clap, snap, sway, or dance to the beat. Movement strengthens rhythm awareness, which supports speech pacing. Invite them to copy your moves or make up their own. You can also use props for play. While props aren't necessary, they can spark extra language. For example, a toy microphone for 'performances,' scarves for twirling during slower songs, bubble wands for song 'finales.' These moments give kids chances to make requests, describe actions, and share ideas. You can also share a quick memory tied to the music: "I danced to this at my prom!" or "This was your great-grandpa's favorite." Then, ask your grandchild a related question, "What's your favorite song at school?" This models conversational exchange.
A fun activity can include creating a playlist of your old favorites. Let your grandchild pick the order or help "DJ" by announcing each song. Announcing and introducing songs builds narrative and sequencing skills. While doing this, take photos or short videos of your musical play. Later, look at them together, narrating what's happening: "Here you are spinning," "That's when we sang about the moon.'' Revisiting experiences helps children strengthen memory and language.
While you're having fun, make sure to keep an eye out. Music time is also a great opportunity to notice how your grandchild is communicating. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) highlights certain signs that may mean extra support is needed: Not interacting with others. Not understanding what others say at 10-15 months. Saying only a few words at 12-16 months. Not combining two words together by 19-24 months. Unable to answer questions at 3 years old. Unable to ask questions or tell a story at 4 years old.
If you notice these patterns, or if something just doesn't feel right, share your observations with a pediatrician or speech-language pathologist.
When grandparents and grandchildren share music, it's not just about melodies, it's about connection. Every laugh, lyric, and dance step is a chance to grow together. By spinning those old records, you're passing down and exercising the joy of communication.
Nancy Polow, PhD, CCC-SLP, is a speech and language pathologist and director of the Suburban Speech Center in Short Hills, NJ.
