The Benefits of Music for Children

Stephanie Breighner

Thesis

Music has the unique ability to stimulate our mood and can also be used as a means of self expression and stress relief. Research findings show that involvement in music programs and therapies, especially during adolescents, can have long term benefits, including better social skills and academic performance in areas related to Mathematics.

Research Supports Parallels Between:

Speech and singing

Rhythm and motor behavior

Musical mnemonics and rote memorization

Optimize an individual's ability to learn to and interact.

Overall ability of preferred music to enhance

mood, attention and behavior

On average, those who participate in musical programs receive more academic honors and higher grades than other students in the general

school population.

In a study conducted by the National Association for Music Education:

96% of public school principals who were interviewed agreed that students who participated in music education were more motivated to stay in school longer. 89% believed music education contributed to higher graduation rates.

Benefits of Music

Stress Relief Improved Mood Improved Social Skills More Confidence Better Academic Performance Self Expression

Music can provide Children with Special Needs:

Structure/Framework for Learning Language Skills Adaptability Self Discovery Expression Motivation Social and Communication Skills Motor Skills

Service Learning Component

Worked with Brent Wilson from Menchey Music Service, Inc. Created a brochure that combined the benefits of music with the services offered by Menchey Music.