Dr. Ira Listijani, pediatrician, Keystone Pediatrics, Chambersburg: Playing and listening to music is a great way to help your child grow and learn. Here are five ways music affects our brains and our bodies, beginning at very young ages. (This article contains general information only and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment or care by a qualified health care provider.)

Singing the praises of music: It's no secret that music can make a profound difference in a child's development. Singing to infants is an ideal way to foster language development, and using different words and rhymes through familiar tunes can enhance the child's memory. An infant's brain isn't thoroughly developed at birth and needs sensory input for cells to build and connect.

Starting before age 7: A recent study revealed that musical training before a child reaches age 7 can have a significant effect on brain development and helps a child's motor skills. Learning to play an instrument requires coordination, and practicing an instrument before age 7 can boost the motor and sensory regions of the brain. Musical training can also be more effective at an early age.

Use your brain: Music is one of the few activities that involves using the whole brain. It's important to understand that musical performance is not only about skills, but also about communication, enthusiasm, style and many other things that we do not measure. While starting early may help you express your genius, it probably won't make you genius.

Insomnia cure: All types of music have favorable effects. Music can be distracting if it's too loud or if it competes for our attention but for the most part, exposure to music has beneficial effects. Listening to music can improve memory and help you recall information. Classical music is an easy way to beat insomnia. Just 45 minutes of relaxing music before bedtime can make for a restful night.

Relax: Countless studies have shown that music's relaxing effects can be seen on anyoneincluding newborns. Music has positive effects on pain management, reduces body tension and improves movement and coordination. Music can help reduce both the sensation and distress of pain. Music is even good for your heartthe study reported that whether or not a person liked the style of music did not matter.

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Take care: Five reasons infants can benefit from music