The benefits of children learning music

Whilst being fun and social, extracurricular activities are also important in helping develop a child's talents, interests, and passions. One particularly enriching activity is learning to play a musical instrument. There has long been a correlation between musical training and academic success, but there are other benefits too.

Below are some more good reasons for learning music:

Music helps the brain to develop
Different studies have proven that the comprehension of musical language can benefit a child's overall mental development. Figures show that students who study music are more successful on standardised tests and are also likely to achieve better grades in high school.

Further research revealed that musical training physically develops the left side of the brain, known to be involved with processing language and reasoning.

Music is fun
Once children have grasped the basics of playing an instrument, they are likely to really enjoy playing it. Every song they learn is a personal achievement. If we encourage their skills by listening to them or even signing along, they will have a great time playing their musical instrument.

Music relieves stress and teaches children to focus 
Playing an instrument or being in a musical class demands total attention. Because of this, music is a great stress-relieving tool that helps to calm the mind and enhance concentration.

Music helps children understand maths
Although they look very different, maths and music are actually quite similar. "When children learn rhythm, they are learning ratios, fractions and proportions," said Professor Gordon Shaw from the University of California, after his study of seven-year-olds in Los Angeles. Music can be a great way of learning maths in an artistic way!

Music is a form of self-expression
As well as being a way of relieving stress, music could also help children to manage their feelings better by expressing them through language. It gives them the chance to exteriorise their emotions through the instrument they are playing, particularly when they have a go at composing their own music.

Music can improve social skills
Music is often played in a group and, therefore, team-work skills are learned, with all players working together harmoniously. In order to improve the show, attending rehearsals and practising is essential too. Working towards a single goal helps to enhance social skills.

"Children who take part in music develop higher levels of social cohesion and understanding of themselves and others," says Dr. Alexandra Lamont, Lecturer in the Psychology of Music at the University of Keele.

Music can make us resilient
No matter what age your child might be, understanding the musical language or learning to play an instrument can be challenging at times. However, those who learn music also learn to be disciplined in their training because that is the key to success.

By experiencing that practice and hard work is essential to reach their goals, children will learn a very valuable life lesson.

Music can boost self-confidence
By improving their abilities with a specific musical instrument and achieving their goals, children can feel very satisfied and this can greatly improve their self-esteem. Taking risks and facing challenges is essential for a child to fully develop his or her potential.