Music Education Provides Big Benefits for Kids

Your child might not be the next Mozart or Michael Buble, but that doesn’t mean an education in music isn’t important. As funding for music and extracurricular programs in schools is cut across the country, many children and adolescents are missing out on the educational benefits these activities provide. In a recent article, writer Laura Lewis Brown identified a number of these benefits and how they can help children excel in and out of the classroom. Here is a list of the seven benefits provided by Lewis Brown:

Not Just About the Music – Recent studies have shown that “learning music facilitates learning other subjects and enhances skills that children inevitably use in other areas.” Children learning about music have to “tap into multiple skill sets, often simultaneously.”

Language Development – Music enhances a child’s ability to decode sounds and words and helps develop the parts of the brain involved with processing language. In addition, the relationship between music and language is also socially advantageous to young children, according to Lewis Brown.

Increased IQ – A study done by E. Glenn Schellenberg found that young children who were given music lessons over the school year tested on average three IQ points higher than other groups.

Brain Boost – Studies have shown that students who receive music instruction have improved sound discrimination and fine motor tasks. Research also indicates that a musician’s brains works differently than that of a non-musician.

Spatial-Temporal Skills – Research has also found a causal link between music and spatial intelligence which means, according to Lewis Brown, that having an understanding of music can help kids visualize various elements that should go together (i.e. solving match problems).

Higher Test Scores – A study published in 2007 revealed that “students in elementary schools with superior music programs scored around 22 percent higher in English and 20 percent higher in math” on standardized tests compared to schools with low-quality music programs. In addition, studies have shown music training can help with basic memory recall.

Advantage for Musically Inclined – Music can help improve a child’s ability to learn and complete non-music tasks, but it doesn’t make someone smarter. A music education should be about helping a child become more musical, learn a new skill, appreciate all aspects of music, and understand more about themselves, according to Lewis Brown.

Rent from Wert 

Is your child interested in learning how to play an instrument or looking for a creative outlet? Rent from Wert Music!

Family-owned, Wert Music has been supporting local band programs for 40 years and carries a wide selection of school approved rental instruments. From drum kits and violins to woodwind instruments and horns, Wert Music offers new, like-new, and economy instruments from some of the most recognizable brands in the business.

In addition, Wert Music offers low monthly rates and month-to-month plans and there is never any obligation to purchase. Wert Music also provides free estimates, on site repair services, and free pick-up and delivery to your school.

For more information on Wert Music or to browse a list of their rental plans, visit their website or check out their company page on Rent It Today!