An article written by Miendlarzewska and Trost (2014)¹ states that music influences cognitive development, highlighting its positive effects on brain structure and function, particularly in children. Musical training also enhances verbal memory, reading abilities, second language skills, and executive functions.
In our current blog, we would like to talk about the effects of music on children:
- Language Development: Music and language share similar brain pathways. Rhythmic patterns in music help with understanding syllables and phonetics, which boosts early literacy. Singing and clapping along to a beat helps children develop an understanding of syllables, rhymes, and stress patterns in words, which are fundamental to decoding words when reading. This potentially contributes to their ability to pronounce words correctly, especially in languages with tone distinctions (e.g., Chinese).
- Cognitive Skills: Problem Solving, Critical Thinking, and Concentration: The process of trial and error in learning a new piece or fixing mistakes in a current piece builds resilience and encourages a logical approach to solving challenges. Figuring out how to play a tricky passage requires planning, evaluating options, and adapting. These cognitive benefits extend far beyond music, positively influencing a child’s academic performance, daily decision-making, and ability to approach new challenges with confidence and creativity.
- Enhances Brain Connectivity: Playing an instrument involves coordinating several areas of the brain. For instance, when children practice, they engage their auditory system by recognizing pitch. They also enhance their visual and motor skills through eye-hand coordination as they read music and play simultaneously. This process helps strengthen the connections between these brain regions.
- Improves Emotional and Social Skills: Emotional Regulation, Empathy, and Cooperation: Music can help children express and process their emotions. Listening to music or playing instruments can provide a healthy outlet for emotional expression, helping them manage feelings like frustration, excitement, or sadness. In group settings like choirs, orchestras, or bands, children must learn to work with others and synchronize their actions. This teaches them teamwork, empathy, and patience as they listen to and support their peers.
- Improves Self-Esteem: Accomplishment and Confidence: Mastering a song or learning an instrument can be an empowering experience for children. As they progress, their sense of accomplishment increases, which boosts their self-confidence and self-esteem. When comes to performing in front of others, it helps children overcome stage fright, develop public speaking skills, and build the courage to express themselves confidently.
In conclusion, incorporating music into a child’s life doesn’t just make learning fun; it also has lasting cognitive, emotional, and social benefits. Whether listening to music, singing, or playing an instrument, engaging with music is a powerful tool for fostering well-rounded development and helping children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
¹Miendlarzewska, E. A., & Trost, W. J. (2014). How musical training affects cognitive development: rhythm, reward and other modulating variables. Frontiers in neuroscience, 7, 279. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2013.00279