12/30/2013
Seven Benefits of Music in Early Childhood Development
It improves academic skills.
Music and math are highly intertwined. By understanding beat, rhythm, and scales, children are learning how to divide, create fractions, and recognize patterns.
It develops physical skills.
Certain instruments, such as percussion, help children develop coordination and motor skills; they require movement of the hands, arms, and feet.
It cultivates social skills.
Group classes require peer interaction and communication, which encourage teamwork, as children must collaborate to create a crescendo or an accelerando.
It refines discipline and patience.
Practicing a musical instrument requires focus. Playing an instrument teaches kids persistence, as they practice hours, months, and sometimes years before they reach specific goals, such as performing with a band or memorizing a solo piece.
It boosts self-esteem.
Lessons offer a forum where children can learn to accept and give constructive criticism.
It introduces children to other cultures.
By learning about a particular instrument, kids can discover other cultures. For instance, bongos and timbales may introduce a child to African and Cuban styles of music.
It encourages self – expression.
Playing a music instrument provides a means for self-expression.
To learn more about the benefits of music, please visit our website www.1stnote.org.
Markus J. Makari
Executive Director
1st Note Music Foundation
