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Brew #18: Why Music is Your Secret Weapon for HSC Meltdowns

Author

Jill Gilbert
February 20, 2025

Raising Highly Sensitive Kids. No Filter.

Hey there, Mama!

I rediscovered one of my favorite calming solutions last week and honestly felt like kicking myself a bit for forgetting how effective it can be – I'm talking about the power of music.

Isn't it funny how we often overlook the simplest solutions? I mean, think about it – when was the last time you were feeling overwhelmed and thought, "I should put on some music"? And yet, when we put on those headphones and finally do press play, it's like taking that first deep breath after being underwater.

For our highly sensitive children, music can be like a protective bubble, a safe space where they can retreat when the world becomes too much. Pop on those headphones, and suddenly they have control over their environment in a way that feels almost magical.

In this issue:

  • ✨ Why music has such a powerful effect on our sensitive children's brains (and how to use it)

  • 👩‍🏫 Meet the teacher using music to transform learning for sensitive kids

  • 🎧 The pocket-sized music player that's becoming every HSC mom's secret weapon

  • 🎵 A Disney playlist that the kids can't get enough of

  • 📱 The kid-safe music app that lets your child be their own DJ (without any inappropriate tunes)

Jill

HSC MAMA, FOUNDER & CEO

P.S. Need a laugh? Check out this week’s "Yep, Been There" Mom Moment →

THE POWER OF MUSIC FOR HSCs

How Music Unlocks Calm in Highly Sensitive Children

Music is one of the few activities that engages nearly every part of the brain simultaneously. It does something to our highly sensitive children that nothing else can – it reaches past their defenses, soothes their overwhelm, and helps them find their way back to calm.

In this week's post, I'm sharing why music works wonders for our sensitive kiddos, plus practical, real-world ways to weave it into your daily life. Whether you're struggling with morning routines or bedtime battles, you'll discover how to create musical moments that help your child feel grounded and understood.

TEACHING THROUGH MUSIC

Meet @singingandteaching, a teacher who's cracked the code on making learning truly magical. By weaving music and movement into her lessons, she's created a classroom where education feels more like a joyful dance than a chore.

Her simple yet brilliant approach uses repetitive songs and movements that help students naturally flow through concepts.

It's amazing to watch how her creative techniques transform traditional teaching into something that gets kids moving, engaged, and genuinely excited about learning.

THE COOLEST SCREEN-FREE MUSIC PLAYER

The Pocket-Sized Music Player That Can Help HSCs Self-Regulate

We've found an awesome screen-free product for those moments when your highly sensitive kiddo needs their own calm bubble. The Yoto Mini takes all the best parts of an iPod without any of the unrestricted internet access or addicting apps. This pint-sized powerhouse fits perfectly in little hands, giving your kiddo the freedom to be their own DJ – whether they're in the mood for Disney dance parties or winding down with cozy bedtime tales.

Music can be so regulating when those overwhelming feelings creep in, and the Yoto Mini is a perfect tool to help your child calm down before things get too intense. Start by introducing it during calm moments and eventually your child will start to reach for it when things start to feel overwhelming.

Here’s how it works: The Yoto Mini uses ‘cards’ to play songs and stories. If you’re anything like me, your first thought is, “Great, what happens when their favorite card suddenly disappears?” Don’t worry, one of the coolest features of this device is you can create replacement cards using an app on your phone. It also has tactile knobs for volume control and song selection–so simple your little one can work it themselves, which is exactly what you need when you're already juggling, well, everything else.

☕ Sip & Support: While "A Cuppa Momsense" is our gift to you, some product links may be affiliates. If you treat yourself, we might get a little something too – at no extra cost to you. It's how we keep the coffee flowing! 💖

YOUR SECRET WEAPON PLAYLIST

Let Disney’s Best Hits Save the Day

We discovered the perfect Disney playlist that brings together all the favorites, making it the perfect soundtrack for helping sensitive kids navigate their emotions. From Encanto's "We Don't Talk About Bruno" to Moana's heart-soaring anthems, the collection has all their beloved songs in one place. No more frantically searching for the next song while your little one's emotions are running high. It's all right here, ready to go!

We are a big fan of Disney in this house! Their songs have this magical way of acknowledging big feelings while keeping things hopeful and upbeat. Plus, familiar tunes can be incredibly comforting during overwhelming moments. Just hit play and let the musical magic work its charm on both of you!

SPOTIFY KIDS MUSIC APP

A Safe Musical Space Just for Your Sensitive Child

Here's a little gem we just discovered that's perfect for our highly sensitive kiddos – Spotify Kids!

We love that It's a totally safe space where your child can explore music independently on their device (if they have one). No worrying about inappropriate content or sudden surprises – just pure, kid-friendly tunes.

The real magic happens when our sensitive little ones start reaching for their favorite calming songs on their own during overwhelming moments. There's something beautiful about watching them develop their own self-regulation tools.

Available with Spotify Premium Family subscriptions, it's like giving your child their own little emotional regulation DJ booth – with all the safety guards already built in!

Want a Free Water Bottle Sticker?

Just refer a mom who needs a little more calm and a lot more support 💞 Click the button below and grab your unique referral link to share with friends through text, email…or however you communicate. Get your free sticker after 5 referrals!

Until next week, sip slowly & savor the calm ☕️