Every parent knows that as soon as their child was born, even before - in utero, had a disposition to certain types of music. Some professionals believe classical music enhances brain activity, others believe the natural rhythm of reggae and soul touches the unborn in ways that we are only starting to understand.

As a parent of two, it was obvious from the start that my two children had very different tastes in music. Both my wife and I have always had music playing. It varies from Ben Harper and Eryka Badu to The Beastie Boys and Death Cab For Cutie. Everything in between has been at some point played to them or around them. Their responses have been totally different depending on what style or artist is coming through the speakers.

Music touches all people both old, young, big and small. From birth and every day going forward, expose your children to all different types of music. It is a resource to them as it is to us, to dream and to live vicariously through lyrics and beats. If nothing else

never force your musical opinion on to them. Let them make their own decisions.

They do it anyway and it is a great bonding tool. I speak from experience.

My eldest daughter Cali, who is six, share similar interests in some bands and we sing in the car as if no one is watching and she belts it out and knows all the words. She will ask me what a lyric means when she does not know and we discuss what she thinks the song is about. I have loved music since before I can remember and I believe that it is a vital part of living.

By watching both my girls shake it down to a track or belt it out makes my heart stop and I dont ever want that to change.

Love your kids and let music take them where you can not.