The ability of music to effectively enhance cognitive development is fast becoming a rationale for including music lessons in early learning curriculum. While participating in music activities, children are believed to be enhancing their physical, language, social-emotional, and cognitive development. Those aside, don’t forget too that they tend to develop their own unique musical skills and appreciation as they interact during music classes as well.

Experts have long agreed that there are many benefits in learning to play a musical instrument. Here, we outline some reasons why you should encourage your child to ditch the video games and play some music instead! Who know, you might just have a budding world-class musician in your hand?

A powerful brain booster

Who knew that it was that easy to afford your child a mental advantage? Yes, music does just that! More and more studies show a correlation between higher academic achievement with children who are exposed to music. Music has been found to stimulate parts of the brain that are related to reading, math, and emotional development. Now, that brings a whole new meaning to the term musical genius!

Improves memory

“Mummy, I don’t remember where I put my socks!” Situations like this are a daily affair in many households with young kids. Help your kids remember more (and learn more!) through music! Research has shown that participation in music at an early age can help improve a child’s learning ability and memory by stimulating different patterns of brain development. Surely this will come in handy not only for finding missing apparel but in schooling and studying as well!

Confidence builder

Are there any areas of life that aren’t enhanced by having good confidence? Probably not! If you feel that your child needs to develop his or her self-confidence, learning to play a musical instrument can help. The level of confidence in a child cannot help but rise upon realizing that not only can they develop an amazing musical skill, but that with dedication and practice, they can get better and better too!

A great form of discipline

How do you get to Carnegie Hall?” The answer? “Practice, practice, practice.”

To improve in music, you have to not only concentrate during music classes, but devote time to practicing outside of the lessons too. That requires a decent level of discipline. So, exposing kids to musical instruments is in fact, exposing them to self-discipline!

Keeps your child grounded and connected

We can’t blame our children for feeling a little disconnected from their lives due to the daily stress of growing up. Music can be a much-needed salvation. It can satisfy the need to unwind from the worries of life, but without the adverse effects as other popular ‘stress-busters’ such as excessive eating, drinking, TV or aimless web browsing. Music makes people more alive and connected with one another.

Helps with social issues

Picking up an instrument can also help a shy or withdrawn child break out of their social shell. Socially, children who become involved in a musical group or ensemble learn important life skills, such as how to relate to others, how to work as a team and appreciate the rewards that come from working together. They also flourish in leadership skills and discipline.

Fosters creativity

Playing music, especially as kids get to more advanced levels, warrants creativity. Being creative is good for the mind, body and soul.