When we sing lullabies to our newborn or make up our own funny songs to entertain our toddler, we unknowingly introduce them to the world of music. As they get older, they will develop their taste for music and might even create their own! Nurture their potential by encouraging them to learn a musical instrument. There are many benefits to learning a musical instrument that goes beyond creating music.

It can make them smarter.

Knowing how to play a musical instrument improves the functions of the brain: from sharpening memory to expanding imagination and reasoning skills. Children who are musically-inclined are said to perform better in their academics.

We recommend this class: The basics of playing the Ukulele (Perfect for kids aged 7 to 11)

It teaches them lessons on perseverance and discipline.

Learning a musical instrument is no easy feat. Just like all other things they do for the first time, there will be learning curves. But that’s the beauty of it. Your child will learn values that will be beneficial for them in the long run. It will teach them how to persevere—strumming the guitar properly, memorizing techniques, and familiarizing themselves with different notes. To be able to master a skill, they also need to be disciplined enough to undergo rigorous training.

We recommend this class: The basics of playing the Guitar (Perfect for kids aged 7 to 11)

It makes them more confident.

Those who know how to play a musical instrument always have something special to show off, whether it’s in a family gathering or when meeting new people. This boosts a child’s confidence and because of it, they’re not scared to take on new things or perform in front of a crowd.

We recommend this class: The basics of playing the Violin (Perfect for kids aged 7 to 12)

It is a good stress reliever.

Any form of art offers refuge from stress—that’s why a lot of musicians and artists claim their music makes them more calm and peaceful. Your child will experience that too once they tap those piano keys or strum the chords, getting lost in the moment. Playing also encourages them to focus, which helps relieve their stress level.

It improves coordination and motor skills.

Playing a musical instrument requires different parts of the body to work. For example, when they’re playing the piano, they’re not just striking keys with their fingers, they’re also using their back muscle, eyes, and ears throughout the performance. This promotes coordination between your body, your mind, and your senses.

We recommend this class: Piano lessons online (Perfect for kids aged 6 and above)

They forge friendships with other kids.

Joining classes like this not only allow your child to learn more about how to play a musical instrument, they also meet like-minded kids who are as passionate about the skill. As they grow old, they might join a musical group where they will meet more musicians and artists, thus, enriching their social circle. It will also teach them how to work well with others.

It cultivates creativity.

Music, as an art form, is a great creative outlet. By playing a musical instrument, a child learns how to express himself not only through lyrics but even through the sounds that he produces.

We recommend this class: Guitar and Ukulele online lessons (Perfect for kids aged 7 and above).

Learn more about Child Health and Development here.

This story originally appeared on Edamama and is re-used with permission:
https://www.edamama.ph/discover/play-learn/the-many-benefits-of-learning-a-musical-instrument