There’s an expression in Portuguese that says “quem canta, seus males espanta,” which roughly translates to those who sing scare away their woes. As it turns out, that’s more than just a popular saying. Multiple studies point out that music classes have the ability to lower stress, relieve anxiety, and elevate endorphins in both children and adults.
We’ve explored some of the benefits of music classes in the past (here and here), but this time we wanted to explore physiological and psychological effects of music on your child. For instance, singing in a group setting has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol,which suggests that “choir singing positively influences both emotional affect and immune competence.” Music has also been shown to positive effects in transforming the way people connect, therefore becoming a tool of social living.
Singing in a choir has been found to promote general well being, from reducing anxiety levels, to improving cardiovascular function and lowering cortisol levels. According to a study, “One reason for this may be that singing demands a slower than normal respiration, which may in turn affect heart activity.”
The research on the emotional responses to music are extensive and show that activities such as singing, dancing and drumming can trigger the release of endorphin, a hormone responsible for pain management and general wellness. Other positive effects of singing can include: “positive affect; focused attention; deep breathing; social support; cognitive stimulation and regular commitment.”
Music is beneficial to one’s life at any age group, however when exposed to music lessons from a young age, kids are given the ability to develop cognitive and social skills that will be extremely important for them growing up. Music classes teach kids early on things such as self-expression, emotional sensibility as well as math and literacy skills. According to Kindermusik, “a study done by musician and mathematician Parag Chordia, showed with MRIs how improvisation uses the brain in a different and unique way than rote memorization performance.” Music classes are an excellent way to practice improvisational skills, which are highly needed in the math and science fields.
At Hive, we believe in the power of music classes, and how much they can affect a child’s learning process and emotional maturity. We think that a playful environment added to skilled professionals are key to helping children develop natural skills that they’re born with. We offer music classes for kids from age 0 to 16, which are carefully developed to cater to each specific age group. Each class is designed to nurture your little bee’s intellectual, speech, social, physical, creative and emotional development through music, rhyme, sound and rhythm.
If you’re interested in learning more about our Music Programs, or booking a trial class, contact us today!