Kids today are overcommitted.  Parents want their children to reap the betterments associated with a variety of activities; thus, many school kids are finding themselves stretched to the limit.  I don’t think it has to be this way, though.   

Through music education, students can put free time back into their schedules while enjoying the host of benefits normally associated with many different activities.  I believe that “pound for pound,” music lessons nurture more life skills than any other after-school activity.

Music lessons help the student:

1)       Acquire grace under pressure

2)       Learn to accept criticism

3)       Develop powers of focus

4)       Establish a work ethic

5)       Enhance coping skills

6)       Learn to set and achieve goals

7)       Develop a sense of teamwork

8)       Increase determination

9)       Improve problem solving skills

10)     Learn to appreciate many forms of art

Additionally, music is a gift that can be nurtured throughout life.  Long after a person’s football days are over they can maintain their active love of music.  Dr. Suzuki, the famous violin methodologist, believed that hearing and playing great music helps children become good people with beautiful, peaceful hearts.

When helping your child plan their schedule, please take a good long look at music.  Every activity has something to offer, but few if any share the myriad benefits of music education. 

For some amazing facts about the many benefits conveyed by music education, visit http://www.menc.org/information/advocate/facts.html

©2007 James Smock