Whether a child shows some actual musical talent, or is just one of those kids that will only hold their performances in the shower, there is no doubt that music education has some interesting benefits for children. Here is a comprehensive list of the benefits that your child can reap from having even basic music education.
It’s not just about music
Research has shown without a doubt that music education greatly facilitates in other types of learning. This is because, while learning about music, the child has to use multiple skill sets simultaneously. It is a very integrating and stimulating activity, where children learn to use their eyes, ears, and fine muscles, and it also trains their memory and rhythm.
Developing language
Music helps enhance a child’s natural abilities to memorize and process language. Whether it’s done at home or in a formal setting, music education greatly speeds up a child’s language development.
This also goes for foreign languages. Children can learn other languages more easily when they are exposed to songs in these languages. So if you want your child to be versatile in foreign languages, you only need to find some appropriate foreign children’s songs.
Increasing IQ
A high IQ might sometimes be just what a child is born with, but it can also be something that is trained. What we call IQ is simply the ability to discern patterns and make logical assumptions or conclusions.
Research has shown that, in small children, music education can greatly increase the IQ of a child. In 2004, a study was conducted where first-graders were given an IQ test, and then subjected to weekly music lessons. After a year, this group was tested again and found to have a much higher IQ increase than another group which didn’t receive the lessons.
Visualization
Music has also been shown to be linked with higher spatial intelligence. This means that children that receive music education find it easier to visualize various connected elements, which comes in handy when solving different multi-step problems that you can encounter in areas such as mathematics, computing, architecture and art.
Confidence
Participating in a music education class can greatly influence a child’s self-confidence. Learning to play an instrument or sing, getting better at it in time, participating in performances and other elements associated with music education are all factors that make a child feel better about itself and have a greater belief in their abilities.