Allowing your child to participate in extracurricular activities is a great way for them to learn new talents and build their social skills. Though there are plenty of activities and after-school programs for you to choose from, one that can prove beneficial and rewarding is music lessons. Children who play musical instruments not only learn how to play jazzy new tunes, but they can greatly enhance their academic abilities and learning experience. Here’s how:
Increased IQ
There is new research that has suggested that children who learn how to play musical instruments regularly can improve their cognitive skills. Studies concluded that playing a musical instrument can improve a person’s IQ by as much as 7 points.
Teaches Discipline
In order to master a musical instrument, children must develop discipline. For instance, children who are taking lessons from guitar teachers would need to be disciplined enough to pick up on strumming techniques, and other tips the teachers may provide. Through practice and discipline, children are able to master new songs and instruments.
Teaches Teamwork
Children who are fortunate enough to play in an ensemble like an orchestra or a band will have the privilege of learning about teamwork. In order to play a complete song, students must learn how to work together to create one sound.
Relieves Stress
School can be stressful at any age. Trying to keep up with grades while also trying to fit in with your peers can sometimes be a lot on a child. Having something that they can release their stress and anxieties on is ideal. There’s something about the healing power of music that cannot be overlooked. As your child plays melodic tunes, it will automatically relax the mind.
Builds Confidence
The more your child practices their musical instrument, the better they’ll get. As they learn to play more and more music, they will begin to feel good about themselves and their abilities to accomplish challenging tasks.
Fun
While it’s going to take a lot of practice, playing a musical instrument can really be fun for your kids. Once they get better at playing, they’ll have increased opportunities to share their talents with friends and family. Whether they perform at a school function, for the community, or in the backyard at a family function, they’ll have fun showing everyone what they’ve accomplished.
Keep it Simple. Make it Fun.
As you can see there are a ton of benefits to allowing your child to learn a musical instrument. Be that as it may, it is important that you don’t force them into something they’re not interested in doing. Talk with your kids about the possibility of playing an instrument. Get feedback on their interests and the type of instrument they might like to play. If it sounds like something they’d really be interested in, be sure to locate a reputable music teacher in the area to provide lessons. Lastly, remember to keep it fun. While it may cost you to pay for music lessons, putting too much pressure on your child to be “excellent” could cause them to lose interest in the hobby altogether. Instead, be supportive and allow them to blossom in their own time.
Learning a musical instrument is a great way to fill up some of that idle time your kids have after school. Allowing them to take music lessons allows them to not only learn a new skill that can be fun, but also to enhance their ability to learn and grow as an individual. As time goes on, you’ll begin to see big differences in the way your children learn and appreciate life.
