According to research, young children gain a lot of advantages when they learn music. Based on these, the optimal period to learn music, particularly musical instrument and singing, is before seven years old. This optimal period refers to faster and easier development in music learning.
Music and Young Minds
Music is academic. For some people, this is the primary reason for providing music lessons to their children. A recent study from the University of California found that music trains the brain for higher forms of thinking. Second graders who were given music lessons scored 27% higher on proportional math and fractions tests than children who received no special instruction. Research indicates that musical training permanently wires a young mind for enhanced performance.
Music is physical. Music can be described as a sport. Learning to sing and keep rhythm develops coordination. The air and wind power necessary to blow a flute, trumpet or saxophone promotes a healthy body.
Music is emotional. Music is an art form. We are emotional beings and every child requires an artistic outlet. Music may be your child’s vehicle of expression.
Music is for life. Most people can’t play soccer, or football at 70 or 80 years of age but they can sing. And they can play piano or some other instrument. Music is a gift you can give your child that will last their entire lives.
Besides, being a professional music teacher from my perspective and personal experience, I would suggest trying to make the music learning process. Once children have defined music learning is for ‘fun’, they would never put themselves in a serious position to explore whether or not they have the potential ability to learn deeply.
Early childhood teachers and music educators should have a good understanding of children’s development and their needs. Young children need to gain a basic knowledge of all types of music and how to appreciate music and arts.
Play-school teachers should be qualified in general music knowledge, music appreciation and music psychology. They need to be all-rounders. Also, teaching cannot be separated from parenting, particularly in early childhood. The best way I recently found to build a relationship between parents and children was parents engaging in the learning process.
