Music lessons for kids is certainly nothing new and learning an instrument has always been popular but the reasons behind this type of learning are changing. Where once it was simply about the child learning to play something because the parents felt it would be useful or the child expressed an interest, we now know the benefits are far reaching and often surprising.

Music for Music’s Sake

Before looking at the wider benefits of learning an instrument and having music tuition it is worth looking at the joy music can bring in its own right. If a child shows an interest in music giving them the chance to take this further can be a very rewarding process. Where once the choice of instrument and lesson type were limited kids can now learn almost anything they like.

Stilted and often boring lessons learning music the child had never heard of is largely a thing of the past. Where a young guitarist would once have to learn acoustic and classical before venturing into rock they can now jump right in with a electric guitar and this often means they stick with it! If the child loves music, then being able to play their favourite songs or sing them is a huge reward in itself and one they will cherish and possible continue for many years.

Confidence and Personality

While playing music when the child loves music is obviously great learning an instrument can also have a very big effect on confidence and personality development. The act of learning to play in itself can build confidence but the learning process often leads to performance. While not all children will want to play on stage at a school show and the like even playing in front of parents can help build and nurture a child’s ability to feel confident in front of people.

In later life this confidence could help with job interviews, presentations and so much more. Also, the process of learning, playing and enjoying an instrument can often help broader personality development.

Coordination and Motor Skills

There is simply no avoiding the fact that most instruments require some level of co-ordination and developing this at a younger age can be very positive. While coordination develops naturally it can be improved at almost any stage of development. Learning an instrument is a great way to build fine motor skills and coordination which may well help with a number of things later in life.

Maths, Memory, Reading and More

Learning an instrument can actually help with maths skills as well as reading and memory. The brain is very busy during learning and playing music making calculations about the next note, remembering the music and learning to read what is essentially a totally new language. This type of activity is fantastic for the developing mind of a child and has been shown to make a big impact.

Stress and Mental Health

It is certainly no secret that children are becoming more affected by stress, anxiety and depressions. The pressures of social media, exams and modern life all take their toll. While mindfulness and other channels can help playing music has been proven to also have a big impact. Playing can provide the kind of focus that allows the brain to relax, it can also be a wonderful outlet for stress and pressure. But getting a song right or playing something the child loves can also just be a great way to feel happy without the need for others. This kind of achievement regardless of peers is very positive indeed.

We are, thankfully, a far cry from the old dusty fusty music lessons of years gone by. Your child can learn any kind of instrument from classical piano to learning to DJ and everything in-between and this is something to celebrate. The health benefits are broad and far reaching and they are benefits that are there for the taking. Visit www.discoverandbe.com to find out more.