Music lessons for kids with life-long benefits

Don’t you love when your child chooses something that is good for him or her? Like when she decides that she loves to eat green beans? Or he realizes that he prefers reading over watching television?

I’ve always hoped my kids would love music and want to learn how to play. I played the clarinet for a short time as a child, and as an adult I’ve regretted giving it up. I wanted my kids to have the same opportunity to at least try music lessons, with the hope that they would stick with it.

Life is one grand, sweet song, so start the music - Ronald Reagan quoteFrom the earliest mention of music lessons, my daughter jumped at the chance to play piano, and she has been taking lessons for a year.  Meanwhile, my boys weren’t interested. 

Until now.

My son has now decided he wants to play the violin. I have to admit, I had kinda hoped somebody would want to play the guitar since seems more practical.  But he chose the violin so we went out and rented one over the weekend, and he’s ready to get started with his lessons.

Since my son got his violin, my daughter has stepped up her piano practicing. The idea that they can play songs together seems to have renewed her excitement for playing.

Beyond their enjoyment of music, I’m thrilled that they’re getting other benefits from their music lessons. I’ve read several articles recently about the long-term boost from childhood music lessons.

An article on PBS.org cites research that found childhood music education increased language development, improved spatial-temporal skills involved in math, enhanced  memory and test-taking skills, and may even provide an IQ boost.

Another article from Medical Daily notes that research shows childhood arts and music may help promote future success.

These are all great potential benefits! My kids are also learning personal responsibility for keeping up with their practicing and caring for their music books and instrument.

I’m looking forward to seeing what they can accomplish as musicians! It almost makes me want to try playing the clarinet again.  Did anyone else give up music as a kid and then regret it?

2 thoughts on “Music lessons for kids with life-long benefits

  1. Jennifer | The Deliberate Mom

    I used to play the piano and quit because I had great difficulties reading sheet music. I wish I had stuck with it. Especially learning sheet music. I think it’s a “language” that every child should learn.

    Thanks for sharing. I look forward to reading more!

    Wishing you a lovely day.

    Reply
  2. LisaLisa Post author

    Reading the sheet music is hard! That’s where my daughter struggles with her piano lessons as well. My fingers are crossed that she pushes through. Thanks so much for stopping by!

    Reply

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