Music: Luxury lesson or intrinsic part of Early Years education?
With the Times Education Supplement reporting that music in UK state schools “could face extinction”, Jo Stone, Head of Music at Quinton House School in England argues that the study of music helps children learn empathy and other key life skills, not just musical ability.
The impact of education in early childhood (birth to age five) on outcomes in later in life is well documented. Early Years education is crucial in developing a range of skills including problem-solving abilities, creativity and physical skills as well as fostering a sense of well-being and discovery
Accepted theory is that taking music lessons as a child enhances brain function and structure. So why is it sometimes still considered a ‘luxury’ subject rather than an intrinsic one?
Children with musical training do better in language, reading, and maths and have better fine motor skills than their non-musical classmates. When exposure to music training begins before age seven, the brain enhancement that takes place can last a lifetime. Learning songs creates an understanding of the world around us and helps children to learn empathy and other life skills such as cooperation, patience, perseverance and respect.
You can read the article in full on the Toddle About website: Sing! How Music Impacts Our Children’s Development.