Why is music so important for the young mind?
Music participation provides a unique opportunity for literacy preparation. Whether the children are singing, playing, or listening, teachers direct them to listen and hear in new ways which exercises their aural discrimination. Playing instruments and adding movement to the lessons teaches children about sequential learning which is essential in reading comprehension. Plato once said that music “is a more potent instrument than any other for education”. You will find many teachers of young children who would agree with him. Recent research has found that music uses both sides of the brain, a fact that makes it valuable in all areas of development. Music affects the growth of a child’s brain academically, emotionally, physically and spiritually.
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. One study observed two groups of preschoolers. 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. 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.Now that we have explained the benefits of music in the preschooler’s life, we can get real. Who is able to take time off from work to take a child to music class during the optimum morning hours? Who has time to go to a music class for each child? How can a preschool teacher with limited music training integrate a music education into her curriculum? The business of our society affects our daily lives. We know from the research that, for young children, the best and longest lasting instruction comes from the parent. What if the parent doesn’t know much about music or how to present it to their child?
In answer to these questions, the “KinderBach”™ book series introduces the piano keyboard, musical concepts, preliminary note reading, and tools for composition. A parent, preschool teacher, or music teacher may use “KinderBach” to whatever degree they decide they need. With “KinderBach”™, a music education background is not necessary for a parent/teacher to introduce his child to learning music. Now, in our busy society, the possibility of providing exposure and experiences in music during the child’s preschool years is actually attainable.
