In today’s world, kids are used to getting almost everything instantly. If a video isn’t interesting, they swipe. If a game gets boring, they download another one. But learning an instrument doesn’t work that way—and that’s actually one of the great benefits of music lessons.

Here are three ways learning music can help children develop patience, persistence, and discipline.

1. They learn that progress takes time.

Most children want to be good at their instrument right away. (I did too—waaaaaaay back when!) But music teaches them that improvement comes little by little. Sometimes it takes days, weeks, or even months before they notice real progress. Learning to keep going anyway builds patience and persistence.

2. They discover the value of consistency.

Learning an instrument requires repetition. Practicing regularly—even when they don’t particularly feel like it—helps children understand that reaching a goal takes effort and consistency. Eventually, they experience the satisfaction of finally playing that difficult song or mastering a new skill. The accomplishment becomes the reward.

3. They learn discipline without losing the fun.

Discipline doesn’t have to mean rigid practice schedules or forcing children to practice for hours. There’s a balance. Give them enough structure and challenge to help them grow without overwhelming them. Practice should be regular, but music should still be enjoyable.

One of the best things about music lessons is that children are learning much more than notes and rhythms. They’re learning to work toward something that doesn’t happen instantly. And when they begin to want to practice because they can see what their effort is accomplishing, you know they’re moving in the right direction.
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Keep Making Music. Dawn Elmer, Academy Director