If you’re tired of listening to Eliza play “Three Blind Mice” on her recorder for the hundredth time, think about this: amazing links are being uncovered between music education and other areas of learning. Research done at the University of California-Irvine indicates that young children taking music lessons have a greater ability to grasp concepts that are also essential to math and science. Coordination and concentration are also improved when, for instance, children take piano lessons and learn to play a different line of music with each hand. Mastering a song or technique allows children to feel a sense of accomplishment and a desire to move on to the next challenge. These feelings of pride can also improve their confidence in the classroom. The lazy days of summer are a great time to introduce and expose your child to all sorts of music. Consider what family members (even neighbors) are willing to put up with: snare drums may not be a big hit in your apartment building! Talk to music teachers or music store employees about which instruments may be easier to learn, given your child’s age and experiences. Group lessons may be a fun and less expensive alternative. Also consider the benefits of the choir at your child’s school, church, or other house of worship. While your child may never become a violin virtuoso, the time he spends practicing an instrument or singing in a choir will contribute to his aptitudes for problem solving, creativity, memory, coordination, and much more. And it’s great fun!
