“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and lift to everything.” ~ Plato
At Mommy University, we are always looking for wonderful ways to help kids grow and learn. We have delved into the benefits of sports, art, science, cooking, and even fishing. In this article, we are going to focus on the amazing benefits of music education.
Whether it’s through a mommy and me class, private lessons or band camp, music programs offer a multitude of benefits for children of all ages. Kids not only have fun, they also gain skills that will help them in school and in life. Since conception, we are told music helps with positive development. Remember putting the headphones up to your belly with your favorite music playing? Music is proven to help boost cognitive, academic and emotional development.
10 Benefits for Music Classes
Develop an Appreciation for Music
Participating in a music class helps foster a love and appreciation for music. Kids begin to learn how music is created and the role they can play in that process. They also learn the deeper meaning in music and how it can impact their emotions.
Sensory Learning
Music classes engage all the senses which helps children learn. It also helps them strengthen their hearing as they learn to decipher different sounds, notes and volumes. This can help improve their listening skills and ability to follow directions.
Enhances Fine Motor Skills
As kids play various instruments, they are strengthening their fine motor skills. Whether it’s rhythm sticks, tambourines, the piano or a guitar, kids will build fine motor strength and manipulation as well as fine motor control. These skills will help with writing, drawing and typing!
Enhances Social Awareness
Music classes offered in a group setting allow kids to socialize with their peers. They learn turn taking skills and enhance their social language skills. Kids also learn to cheer each other on as well as compliment each other for a job well done.
Helps Develop a Good Work Ethic
Music is a skill as well as a talent. Kids must work hard to perfect it which takes determination and dedication. Kids learn to practice and put forth effort which leads to a good work ethic. This can be carried over to school, sports and work!
Builds an Appreciation for Other Cultures
Through music, children are exposed to a variety of cultures. They learn about different types music and its importance around the world. Kids learn to broaden their awareness of the world and become more accepting of those around them.
Boosts Academic Skills
Music is often used to teach academic skills, especially in the young grades. You can’t walk into a preschool or Kindergarten classroom without hearing the kids sing or watching them dance to a fun song. Singing and dancing is a multi-sensory learning technique that helps kids grasp concepts. We all remember the ABC song, the Days of the Week, or Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. These songs were the building blocks of learning!
Encourages Self-Expression
Some kids (and adults) struggle with expressing themselves but, for many, music allows them to share their thoughts, feelings, and desires. Learning to play an instrument can help lead children down a path of self-expression which turns into self-awareness and self-confidence.
Sparks Creativity
Music allows children to get creative and have fun. Whether it’s coming up with lyrics, writing a fun tune, or playing with a variety of instruments to see what sounds they can make, music encourages creativity and outside the box thinking. Boosting creativity can, in turn, help enhance academic success!
Boosts Confidence
As children become more successful, their confidence and self-esteem grows. They learn that all that hard work pays off, and they feel a sense of accomplishment. My son was so proud of himself when he performed in his first concert. It gave him the confidence to keep learning and trying!
What instrument do your kids play? Put your answer in the comments section below.
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