Esther Bertram | Music, Movement & Milestones: Building Better Brains in Early Childhood with Music

TL;DR: Esther Bertram of Mini Maestros shares how music supports early childhood development, from boosting brainpower to building emotional regulation. She explains why music works for all kids—and how parents can bring rhythm, connection, and confidence into everyday moments.

Raising Musical Humans: How Early Music Builds Brains, Confidence & Connection

When you picture a baby music class, you might think of tambourines and singalongs. But behind the joy and giggles lies something much deeper: real brain development, emotional regulation, and parent-child connection. That’s the message Esther Bertram, professional musician turned early childhood educator, is championing through her work at Mini Maestros.

In this episode of The Mama Making Podcast, Esther joins Jessica for a warm, enlightening conversation on how music shapes our children—and how we as parents can become confident, musical guides, even if we’ve never picked up an instrument.

From Touring Musician to Toddler Educator

Esther’s journey to music education wasn’t a straight line. After touring Europe as a successful singer-songwriter, she returned home to Australia and felt drawn to a new mission: helping families use music as a tool for connection, confidence, and early learning.

Now, as the Chief Marketing Officer of Mini Maestros, Esther helps lead a research-backed, developmentally grounded music program for babies through preschoolers. With both in-person and on-demand classes, Mini Maestros is bringing the power of music to families across Australia—and beyond.

Why Music Matters (Even Before They’re Talking)

There’s a growing body of research showing that music isn't just play—it’s one of the most powerful learning tools for young children. In fact, the brain activity that happens when a child engages with music is often referred to as “the fireworks effect.”

Esther explains that music engages multiple areas of the brain at once: motor planning, memory, language development, and emotional regulation. But it’s not just about turning kids into future musicians. It’s about helping them:

• Learn to self-regulate through rhythm and repetition

• Build language and social-emotional skills through group songs and turn-taking

• Gain confidence and creativity in a safe, joyful environment

• Strengthen bonding with their caregivers through shared experiences

As Esther puts it, “Children don't just enjoy music—they need it.”

It’s Not About Being a “Musical Parent”

A common roadblock for parents is the belief that they’re “not musical enough” to teach or enjoy music with their kids. Esther gently pushes back on that.

“Musicality is a muscle,” she shares. “And when it comes to parenting, it’s not about talent—it’s about being present, being playful, and being consistent.”

She encourages parents to try simple things like:

• Singing the same lullaby every night (repetition = security)

• Making up songs for transitions (like getting dressed or brushing teeth)

• Tapping a rhythm on your baby’s back to soothe them

• Using scarves, pots, or spoons as instruments—no fancy gear required

You don’t need to be a performer. You just need to show up.

Supporting All Learning Styles—Including Neurodivergent Kiddos

One of the most powerful parts of this conversation is Esther’s emphasis on inclusion. Mini Maestros is built to support kids of all abilities and learning styles. In fact, many neurodiverse children thrive in the program thanks to:

• Predictable routines

• Visual and tactile cues

• Emphasis on movement, not just sound

• Space to engage at their own pace

Music meets children exactly where they are—and helps them regulate, express, and participate in ways that feel safe.

How Parents Can Use Music at Home—Starting Today

You don’t have to attend a class to make music part of your home life. Esther encourages families to think of music as a daily parenting tool, just like snacks or storytime.

Some easy ways to bring more music in:

• Create a “hello” song you sing every morning

• Use clapping games for connection and coordination

• Turn cleanup time into a musical game

• Make a playlist together for different moods (calm, energizing, etc.)

The key is consistency and enjoyment. When music becomes part of your family rhythm, it stops being a “nice extra” and becomes a foundational part of your child’s growth.

Final Thoughts: Music as Medicine for Modern Parenthood

In a world full of overstimulation, schedules, and screens, music offers something rare: presence. It helps children slow down, connect with their bodies and emotions, and relate to the world around them.

Esther’s message is clear: musical play isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. And when we as parents lean into the power of music, we’re not only supporting our children’s development—we’re nurturing our own sense of joy and connection too.

Ready to bring more music into your home?

Check out Mini Maestros’ on-demand classes and free trial options at minimaestros.teachable.com.

the mama making podcast, early childhood development, Mini Maestros, Esther Bertram, baby music classes, toddler development, music and brain development, emotional regulation for toddlers, parenting podcast, music-based learning, neurodivergent-friendly parenting tools, parenting toddlers with music, how music supports development, musical play for kids