What are the benefits of early childhood music enrichment classes?
Should Preschools Have Music Enrichment Classes? Just as studies have shown the importance of preschool programs, studies have also shown the myriad of benefits of music for preschoolers. (Check out this article from the University of Maryland.) In fact, academic achievement and long-term success are found in children who have been exposed to children’s music classes.
While everyone knows that this generation needs STEM skills, many schools are cutting beneficial arts funding. And, this is a mistake of epic proportions! Budgeting for arts programming (such as music enrichment programs) is necessary.
Let’s take a look at just a few of the ways music enrichment programs are beneficial.
Stimulates Brain Development
Studies have shown that music stimulates brain development. By exposing little ones to music, you are improving their cognitive skills. For example, a 2016 study compared babies who took music classes to those who were in non-musical playgroups. The study revealed that the babies in the music classes had improved brain processes in comparison to their peers in the non-musical group.
When you ask should preschools have music enrichment classes?It’s important to recognize that music classes help preschoolers develop focus and recognize patterns, rhythms, and sequencing. These same cognitive skills transfer to language development skills. In the same way children recognize sounds and patterns in music, they also recognize patterns in language and speech.
Improves Academic Achievement
Naturally, as cognitive skills develop, it also suggests that music classes will help students academically. And, there is data to support it! For instance, statistics suggest that those who take music classes score higher on academic tests. The National Association for Music Education presented evidence that students who took music classes scored “63 points higher on verbal and 44 points higher on math for students in music appreciation courses.” PBS Parents also reports that a different study “found a small increase in the IQs of six-year-olds who were given weekly voice and piano lessons.”
Encourages Emotional Development
Another important benefit of preschool music classes is that it encourages emotional development. When children participate in music classes, their confidence grows. Music teaches children how to express themselves creatively, and it also provides room for intellectual discovery.
Involves Cooperative Play
Preschool music classes present opportunities for students to play and learn together. Cooperative play is a critical skill for preschoolers to develop – they must learn to work and play well with others. Music classes are an easy way to encourage students to work together.
Strengthens Motor Skills
The best music classes for kids also include movement. When classes combine music and movement, it is a winning combination. Not only does it allow little ones to get their wiggles out, but it also helps them develop their fine and gross motor skills. As they learn to move to the beat or play an instrument, they are strengthening their motor skills in ways that are fun and enjoyable.
A Preschool Music Class That Works
If you are looking for a preschool music enrichment program, look no further than Rockness Music. This award-winning program is a dynamic rock music class designed for early childhood education. These trained music teachers understand the importance of music education for developing healthy brains and bodies. Offering in-school music classes, themed shows and assembles, and choral ensembles, Rockness Music effectively brings music enrichment to you. All those benefits we discussed above? They know how to make it happen.
- Brain Development & Academic Achievement – Their program is STEM curriculum-aligned and includes sight-reading, instrument discovery, and more.
- Emotional Development – Through music, dance, and dramatic play, children learn to express themselves and build confidence.
- Cooperative Play – Children work together in drum circles, choral performances, and more.
- Motor Skills – Their energetic music lessons include dancing, playing instruments, and yoga.