How Learning Music Boosts Literacy

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Higher literacy leads to success in every other subject in school. Each aspect of your child’s learning journey, from math problems to social studies, requires them to be able to comprehend language and apply it in different situations. A proven way to boost literacy is through music education, which improves literacy skills in a way that is fun and engaging.

 

According to studies cited in Psychonomic Bulletin & Review, because music and language are processed in the same part of the brain, they are intertwined. For example, practicing rhythms helps boost memory and cognitive skills.

 

The Department of Music at Kent State University points out that “[w]hen students learn music, it strengthens the area used for processing language, making it better able to handle language processing tasks.”

 

Allowing your child to take music lessons or attend a music class will help them immensely when it comes to processing language, and it may even boost their grades in school. Here are some great tips from New Fire Music for how to help your child build a passion for music and have fun with it.

 

Create a Dedicated Practice Space

 

Decorating a room as a practice space for your child will allow them the freedom to work without distraction. Invest in music-inspired art and give the room a touch-up. Newly-painted walls and new windows are not only great ways to freshen up the room, they’re also cost-effective updates that can boost your home’s value.

 

Learn Along with Them

 

It can be challenging to keep kids involved in your life when you’re busy with work. However, when parents get involved in their child’s activities, it shows that what they’re doing is worthwhile. Consider learning an instrument alongside your child. You could also attend a concert or take music classes together. Get involved and become engaged; encourage them to keep trying even when things get difficult. The Child Development Institute notes that getting involved with your child’s hobbies can increase their cognitive development, keep them motivated, and strengthen your relationship. It also has an impact on their overall academic achievement. 

 

Look for Programs at School

 

Most schools have a music program, so ask your child’s teacher about how both of you can get involved. Whether it’s by playing an instrument or joining a choir, there are several ways your child can benefit from the musical arts. Not only will it help with literacy skills, but it could help them be more engaged in class. 

 

Increasingly, there are rock-and-roll camps for kids and opportunities for them to be in bands. Learning to interact with others through music teaches harmony, patience, and listening skills. Perhaps, most important of all, playing together is a great way to make friends. 

 

Take it to the Next Level

 

Some schools will even provide instruments for students to play. If your child is older, and interested, you can arrange for private lessons. Individual instruction reinforces a practice routine and creates structure for development. If you just want to dip a toe in, there are apps and online resources to help with learning to play an instrument. 

 

Don’t Let Age Stand in the Way

 

Even if your child is in preschool or kindergarten, they can benefit from attending a music program. You can even have sing-alongs at home or tell stories in song, and encourage your child to do the same.

 

Music and literacy have long been known to go hand-in-hand, but it’s different for every child. Talk to teachers about the best ways for you both to get involved. With some encouragement, they’ll likely boost their grades and have fun learning a new craft. 

 

New Fire Music is a community of artists, journalists, audio engineers, graphic designers, videographers, and other service providers that support rising talent in emerging Hip-Hop and R&B. We’d love to hear from you!