Do Lullabies Work? The Power and History of Lullabies
“Rock-a-by baby on the treetop” we’ve all likely sung or been sung a lullaby at some point. They’ve existed for thousands of years and are still a go-to for parents across the globe. From their creepy origin to being used in modern-day cot mobiles, what exactly is it about lullabies that babies love so much? Keep reading to find out and learn some new lullabies to test on your little bubba!
What is the history of lullabies?
Lullabies exist in practically every culture in some shape or form. One of the first documented lullabies dates back to 2000 BC and was carved on claystone. But, forget about cutesy kittens and clouds, this lullaby is quite sinister. It basically warns babies not to cry during the night, otherwise, horrible things will happen to them. While this seems like the stuff of nightmares rather than soothing your baby, it was a common theme for early lullabies. Scare tactics were used to encourage babies to sleep through the night and it kind of makes sense. With humans facing much more danger than today, babies needed to be quiet to keep themselves and their families safe.
Hence, lullabies are rooted in danger and fear. “Rock-a-by-baby”, for example, is about a baby falling in its cradle from treetops. The true origin of this song is unknown, but there are plenty of rumors. One talks of a pilgrim observing how Native American mothers hung their babies in birch-bark cradles in high tree branches. Another claims the lullaby was written in an English pub during the Glorious Revolution of 1688, wishing death upon King James II’s heir and therefore an end to his empire. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly the origins, but either way, it’s sinister!
And what about the name lullaby?
Again, the origin of the actual word ‘lullaby’ has many rumors behind it. Some believe the term comes from the combination of lull-ing and by-ing, sounds that soothe babies ready for sleep. Others believe the term stems from the Hebrew expression “Lilith-Abi” which translates to “Lillith be gone”. In Jewish folklore, Lilith is a demon who steals babies away in the night. Lullabies were like a spell to keep babies safe as they slept. Once again, a little creepy.
Okay, but why do they work?
Regardless of the origin of lullabies and why people used to sing them, they do actually work. And here are a few reasons why.
- They recreate the womb:
Lullabies are gentle and soft melodies that feature a triple meter (three beats per bar), giving them that rocking rhythm. This recreates similar movements that your baby experienced when they were a fetus in your womb. By recreating this feeling of comfort and safety, your little one can relax in preparation for sleep.
- A non-verbal communication of safety:
Feeling safe is a huge reason why lullabies are so powerful. Your baby can’t yet understand words and language but they can understand your non-verbal cues. By singing to your baby, you are communicating to them that they are safe. Plus you are close by, which makes them feel secure. Singing lullabies to your little one is therefore a great bonding experience for you both.
And what’s even more fascinating, researchers have found that singing your baby lullabies helps stimulate their language and cognitive development. So not only are you helping lull them to sleep, but you’re also nourishing their growing brain. Talk about two birds, one stone!
5 classic lullabies to sing your baby to sleep
Next time you’re struggling to get your little one to rest, try singing a lullaby to them. Whether you have the voice of Adele or are tone-deaf to a tee, it doesn’t matter. The melody and your presence will work like a charm.
Still pregnant? You can also try singing to your unborn baby. Some doctors suggest doing so familiarizes your baby with the lullaby. Then, when they are born, they will associate the song with feelings of comfort and safety. Here are five classic lullabies to try out on your little one:
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“Rock-a-Bye Baby” lyrics
Rock-a-bye baby
On the tree tops,
When the wind blows
The cradle will rock.
When the bough breaks
The cradle will fall,
And down will come baby
Cradle and all.
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“Brahms’ Lullaby” (“The Cradle Song”) lyrics
Lullaby and good night,
With roses bedight.
Creep into thy bed,
There pillow thy head.
If God will thou shalt wake,
When the morning doth break.
If God will thou shalt wake,
When the morning doth break.
Lullaby and good night,
Those blue eyes close tight.
Bright angels are near,
So sleep without fear.
They will guard thee from harm,
With fair dreamland’s sweet charm.
They will guard thee from harm,
With fair dreamland’s sweet charm.
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“Row, Row, Row your Boat” lyrics
Row, row, row your boat
Gently down the stream
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily
Life is but a dream
(repeat four times)
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“Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” lyrics
Twinkle, twinkle, little star,
How I wonder what you are!
Up above the world so high,
Like a diamond in the sky.
(repeat four times)
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“Frère Jacque” Lyrics
Frère Jacques, Frère Jacques,
Dormez-vous? Dormez-vous?
Sonnez les matines! Sonnez les matines!
Ding, dang, dong. Ding, dang, dong.
Before you go…
Now you’re equipped with some lullabies to get your little one to nod off, we’ve got one more trick up our sleeve, and it’s a good one. It’s BABY SLEEP from Beginning.com! We offer you a series of beautiful and natural melodies created by our experts to help your baby fall and stay asleep. And the best thing? It’s completely natural! Access Baby Sleep to:
- Create a stress-free environment for your baby
- Nurture healthy growth and development
- Significantly improve sleep quality
- Set up a consistent sleep schedule
- Develop your little one’s imagination
Getting your baby into a regular sleep routine can be tricky, but here at Beginning.com, we’re here to help. Plus, for more tips and tricks, check out our expert-led masterclasses.