Extracurricular activities are not only fun, but they can also help children develop passions, interests and talents. An activity that has always been enriching for children is learning a musical instrument. Scientists have long proven a correlation between doing so and academic success, but there are other benefits, too.
Helping With Brain Development
Different studies have shown that the comprehension of a musical instrument and what it takes to be competent with one helps with overall mental development. These studies show that kids who study music and play a musical instrument do much better in standardised tests than their counterparts who do not. They are also more likely to achieve better grades later in life.
Other studies show that playing a musical instrument can help with the development of the left side of the brain. This is the side responsible for reasoning and language processing and this finding can further support the evidence laid forth by the aforementioned studies.
Music Teaches Children To Focus
Learning to focus earlier in life can help slow down or reduce the development of ADHD in younger kids. Playing an instrument requires a lot of attention, and so does learning how to play one. Because of this, a musical instrument can be a great way of enhancing concentration while enhancing skills kids will need in the future.
To ensure the best outcomes, parents should encourage their kids to start with simpler instruments such as a keyboard. Parents can find a piano keyboard for sale and enrol their kids in classes that are geared towards and appropriate for children of their age.
Maths Skills
At its very basic, music entails a lot of mathematics. Children who are learning to read music so they can play an instrument will be exposed to pattern recognition, basic fractions and problem-solving. Children studying music also typically have better spatial intelligence and the ability to picture objects in their minds. These skills become much more important when they start learning advanced mathematics.
Helping With Social Skills
Even if they take lessons alone, kids who learn to play a musical instrument typically join a band or choir. Making and playing music in such a group can be instrumental in helping kids develop their social skills and emotional intelligence.
They learn how to work in a team and how to be empathetic towards others. They may also learn the importance of helping others and allowing others to help them when they get stuck. This can help them better understand themselves and others.
Achievement And Discipline
Learning to play a musical instrument, even at the basic level children do, requires a lot of discipline. This discipline is crucial because it helps with developing short-term goals and routines. The discipline, resilience and routine will pay off when they start being recognised for their skills.
This sense of achievement is crucial for kids, especially for their self-confidence. It also demonstrates to them that they can achieve something if they keep at it.
Encouraging your kids to learn an instrument is not just about ensuring they learn that skill. Doing so has numerous other benefits, including teaching skills and habits that kids can leverage for the rest of their lives.
