Start Your Playlist Today, Lyrics Matter

Music — and its lyrics — can be one of the most powerful tools we have to build resistance against the negative effects of excessive screens and technology.

Our children’s brains are under constant construction. Twenty-four hours a day. Everything they are exposed to is shaping the foundation of who they will become. What they hear repeatedly matters. What they sing matters. What they internalize matters.

That’s why I encourage you to move age-appropriate music to the top of your family priority list.

Together, we can explore creative ways to provide screen-free education and entertainment. When every moment counts, we can filter out the noise and build resilience through fun, energetic musical messages that emphasize core values, joy, discipline, and love.

Think about it.

Most of us can still sing every lyric from artists of the past and present — Prince, Elvis, Michael Jackson. Music stays with us. It shapes culture. It shapes identity. It shapes memory.

So let’s be intentional about our exposure.

Take a recent example: the Super Bowl 2026 halftime show featuring Bad Bunny. With 138 million viewers singing and dancing along, many did not understand the Spanish lyrics being performed. Content matters. Messages matter. Cultural representation matters. Entertainment viewed by families across the nation should reflect responsibility as well as rhythm.

As a former CPS teacher at Orozco Academy, I proudly showcased authentic Hispanic native dances and songs — traditions rooted in heritage, pride, and positive storytelling.

Children are sponges. I would argue adults are too. We absorb both conscious and unconscious lessons from music and repeated words.

So choose wisely.

Prioritize your time — it is priceless and finite.
Create a daily playlist filled with artists and messages that elevate your home environment.
Sing together. Dance together. Repeat what strengthens you.

Start your playlist today.

And please share your family favorites with us at GOT. - info@getontrackillinois.org

Suzanne’s favorite – Whitney Houston, Miracle

Alex’s favorite – Pink, Cover Me in Sunshine