Myth vs. Mind #3: Does Playing Mozart Make Babies Smarter?
Psychology Myth Uncovered. Music improves mood, but it doesn’t boost permanent intelligence.
Picture this: you’re expecting a baby, and someone tells you, “Play Mozart to your tummy. It will make your child smarter.” It’s a common belief. I heard that many times.
Many parents have tried it, hoping that classical music might give their baby a head start in life. After all, who wouldn’t want to do something simple and loving that promises a brighter future?
But playing Mozart to your baby in the womb will not make them smarter.
Other Psychology Myths Uncovered
Why did this myth spread so easily?
The story began in the early ‘90s, when researchers discovered that college students who listened to Mozart for short periods performed better on certain spatial reasoning tasks.
Although the effect was small and temporary, lasting approximately 10 minutes, the media seized on the findings. Headlines boldly declared, “Mozart Makes You Smarter!”, without any substantial evidence.
Over time, this was misinterpreted and reshaped: if Mozart boosts intelligence in adults, then surely it must make babies smarter, too.
Parenting guides, magazines, and even some state programs promoted the “Mozart Effect.” Soon, parents-to-be were placing headphones on baby bumps, hoping for a head start.
What science tells us
The science is more modest and more beautiful in its simplicity.
Playing Mozart to a baby in the womb won’t raise their IQ. There’s no evidence that prenatal exposure to classical music boosts intelligence.
A baby's hearing begins to develop around 16 weeks, but they start responding to sounds from around week 22. Babies may recognise familiar voices, rhythms, and melodies after birth. But this recognition is about comfort and familiarity, not IQ.
What truly supports a baby’s brain development is a loving, responsive environment: talking to them, reading to them, making eye contact, cuddling, and giving them safe opportunities to explore once they’re born.
So while Mozart won’t make your child a genius, your love and presence will do far more for their development than any playlist. But that doesn't mean you cannot play Mozart or listen; like any other classical music, is nice to hear in the house.
Everyday examples that break the myth
Many mothers sing lullabies, hum gently, or talk to their baby bump. This doesn’t make the baby smarter, but it makes them feel comforted and connected.
A baby born into a house with laughter, stories, soothing music, and interaction thrives, not because of Mozart, but because of relationships.
Music can play a big role, though: babies often calm down when they hear familiar tunes after birth, but that’s about emotional connection, not IQ points.
I can share a little from my own journey, as well:
I’ve always loved classical music. During my pregnancy, I listened to a lot of it, but not because I thought it would make my son smarter. I played it because it relaxed me, eased my stress, and created a peaceful environment. After he was born, I continued to play classical pieces, among other genres, not as a magic formula for intelligence, but to surround him with quality music, the kind of educational and soothing atmosphere. To this day, I think of it not as “raising his IQ” but as giving him the gift of beauty, calm, and culture.
A gentle reminder
If you’re an expecting mother, you don’t need to stress about filling your baby’s ears with Mozart. Instead:
Talk and sing to your baby frequently. They recognize your voice better than anyone else's, and it’s the sweetest sound to them. Your soothing tones can help create a strong bond and make them feel secure.
Play music that you genuinely enjoy and find relaxing. Your emotional well-being is important, as a calm and happy mother provides the most nurturing environment for your baby. Consider creating a playlist of calming melodies and engaging tunes that you can share together during quiet times.
After your baby is born, focus on enriching interactions to stimulate their development. Read a variety of stories to them, using expressive tones and gestures to bring the characters to life. Respond to their coos and babbles enthusiastically, as this encourages communication skills. Allow your baby the freedom to explore their surroundings safely, as these little moments of exploration are vital for brain development. These small, loving interactions play a crucial role in building their cognitive and emotional foundations.
In conclusion
The “Mozart Effect” is more myth than miracle. Playing Mozart to your baby in the womb won’t raise their IQ, but it may soothe you, and that alone benefits your baby.
The true secret to raising a thriving child lies in warmth, presence, and everyday love.
Gentle reflection for you
What sounds, music, or rituals bring you a sense of calm and help you feel more present?
These serene moments may be some of the most meaningful gifts you can share with your baby.
I’m Andi. I'm endlessly captivated by the quiet dance between mind, body, and behaviour. With roots in economics and psychology, I listen for what’s felt but not always spoken: the gestures, the silences, the emotions we bear in our skin. My writing is where science meets soul, a space to give shape to what we hold inside. I hope you’ll find something here that makes you feel seen, and I’d love to hear what you carry, too.
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