Playing an instrument isn’t just an entertaining skill – it can strengthen your cognitive abilities, help you manage stress, and build teamwork throughout your family. Your family can learn how to share a joy for music by making efforts to learn musical instruments together. If you’re thinking about sending your children to music lessons, consider joining them to create a family band. Here are four ways musical education can lead to stronger family relationships.
Communication
Music can be an excellent way for family members to express themselves. You can convey subtle ranges of emotion through song selections and your playing style. It’s not every day that you can learn more about each other without verbalization. In fact, music can help teach children to communicate better. According to Mary Luehrisen of the National Association of Music Merchants, “one of the breakthroughs…is music’s benefit of language development” in children younger than nine years old. Allowing your child to express their creativity at an early age with music can make it easier for them to communicate as they grow up.
Memory
Learning how to play a musical instrument requires a high level of dedication, concentration, and practice. Everyone in your family can benefit from the cognitive sharpening that comes with playing music. You must learn and remember the rules of music theory and notation to follow along with sheet music – almost like learning a different language. You must also be able to recall note placement quickly, so that you can hit the right keys at the right time. These are all extremely engaging activities that can help hone your cognitive abilities.
Teamwork
Playing music together requires a significant amount of patients and collaboration. Some children might get impatient or upset if they are struggling with a particular piece of music. As a parent, it’s your job to direct their practice sessions in a way that is constructive. Tackle music projects together to synchronize tempos and decipher sheet music. Pretty soon, your family will be able to perform together at your child’s next birthday party or community celebration!
Stress Relief
Constructive hobbies, like playing musical instruments, can have a very meditative effect on both adults and children. These activities allow you to channel your energy in creative ways. This is why music is so frequently incorporated into therapy. The next time your family comes home after a stressful day, see if a jam session can get everyone smiling again.
Playing music as a family can be an extremely rewarding experience. Check out digital sheet music libraries to find great songs that you and your kids can play together. Work together to create an impressive repertoire and share your new talents with your friends and other family members!