Playing a Musical Instrument – Benefits for Kids

Are you searching for a fun and fulfilling activity that can enrich your child’s life in countless ways? Look no further than the magical world of playing a musical instrument! While many parents may view music lessons as just another extracurricular obligation, the benefits for kids extend far beyond simply learning how to play a few notes. From boosting cognitive development to enhancing social skills and fostering creativity, the act of picking up an instrument can truly be a game-changer in your child’s life.

playing a musical instrument
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Seven reasons why every child should learn to play an instrument:

Improve a child’s memory.

A study by the University of Edinburgh found that piano players had better verbal memory than non-musicians. The same study also found that guitar players had better visuo-spatial memory than non-musicians.

Improve a child’s hearing.

A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that children who took piano lessons had better auditory skills than those who did not take piano lessons.

Improve a child’s math skills.

A study by the University of California, Riverside, found that children who took piano lessons had better math skills than those who did not.

Help improve a child’s social skills.

A study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that children who took piano lessons had better social skills than those who did not.

Help reduce stress.

A study published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology found that piano players had lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol than non-musicians.

Improve a child’s self-esteem.

A study published in Psychology of Music found that children who took piano lessons had higher self-esteem than those who did not.

Help a child get better grades in school.

A study published in Educational Psychology found that children who took piano lessons had higher grades than those who did not.

Practice Strategies for Playing an Instrument

Learning an instrument is a great way for your child to unlock their creative potential and develop their musical ability. But with all the practice of mastering a new instrument, it can be hard for kids to stay motivated. Never fear, though – we’ve got some tips and tricks to keep them practicing!

First, set realistic expectations – learning an instrument takes time, so ensure they understand that progress won’t happen overnight. Aiming too high can lead to frustration if they don’t hit those lofty goals immediately. Secondly, try setting rewards for regular practice; a special activity or treat after completing their daily routine will encourage them to stick with it! Finally, recognize the small wins along the way. Praise each step towards growth in skill level – however small they may seem at first!

Playing an Instrument – Here’s the Best Ones to Learn

Playing an instrument can be fun and fulfilling for children to explore their creativity. But with all the different options, knowing which instrument is best for your child’s age, interests, and budget can be hard. Fortunately, we have you covered! Here are some of the best instruments for kids who want to learn music.

Ukuleles are a great pick for younger children just beginning their musical journey. Not only are they affordable and easy to learn – they’re also incredibly portable! This makes them ideal for bringing along on vacations or family trips. Plus, they come in various colors and sizes, so your little one will have many choices when deciding which uke fits them best!

A guitar is always an excellent option for older kids ready to take their talent up a notch.

Final Thoughts on Kids Playing an Instrument

As you can see, there are many benefits to learning to play an instrument. So, to help your child excel in school and life, consider signing them up for piano, violin, or guitar lessons. They’ll be glad you did!

Do you have a child who plays an instrument? What benefits have you seen? Share your stories in the comments below!

2 Comments

  • Zachary Tomlinson

    I had no idea that learning a musical instrument drills a routine that can help your child learn more about practicing! My friend wants to let his child try some summer activities. I think finding a drum expert can teach his son how to play drums someday.

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