Benefits of listening to classical music and reading to unborn baby

[Freemie33]

Hi guys, hope you are well. I am new to Mumsnet. I am in my first trimester and have started to play classical music and read to ‘bump’ as I’ve heard it is a great way to help baby to grow and develop. Has anyone heard of/done this and is it true? Thank you x

Can recommend John Cage 4'33".

It’s codswallop. The baby is developing just as it should (hopefully) regardless of music choice.

I'm not sure orchestral music is more simulating than other music (David Grey and Dido excepted). It's certainly not going to encourage growth - musicians would be having monstrous babies, wouldn't they?

If you enjoy it then it’ll be a lovely way to bond, carry on (don’t think they can hear til 16 weeksish- won’t be doing any harm though!)

I don't think it is true at all. Play the music you like.

If you like it and it relaxes you, go right on ahead. If you hate it and it stresses you out, don’t do it.

You being calm and unstressed is the best possible thing you can do for your baby.

I don't think it helps development but as pp have said if you find it relaxing and pleasant it can't be a bad thing. I did try classical music through headphones on my bump once though (early 2000s). DS was more of a rock baby when he came out

Thanks guys, really appreciate your advice x

I think the first trimester is probably a bit early for there to be much effect (and you will have a million more chances to benefit your child) but it won't do any harm, so if it makes you happy, go for it.

No benefits at all. I actually tested it by singing the same song over and over when I was pregnant with my first. I thought ds would recognise it after the birth but nope.