Research studies exist for almost everything out there and, in many cases, the results of these studies conflict with each other. But there is one area of research which consistently shows positive results. Countless studies show that learning to play an instrument and involvement in music programs has enormous potential for positive effects on a person's life. There are many statistics that show links between a child's musical abilities and an increased aptitude in academic areas. For example, studies show that students who participate in a music program achieve significantly higher scores than their non-musical peers on standardized tests and music majors are the most likely of college graduates to be admitted into med school. There are also many statistics linking musical study to benefits outside academics - music students are shown to be less aggressive, faster learners, and to have higher self-esteem than many non-music students. With so many statistics showing the benefits, what is there to you from encouraging your child to learn to play an instrument?

When given a choice of what instrument they would like to play, many children choose to learn to play the guitar. The guitar is a very popular instrument and, with regular practice, it is possible to learn to play the guitar very quickly. If your child would like to learn how to play the guitar you should do whatever you can to encourage them - enroll your child in a class or hire a private instructor. You can even help your child to take guitar lessons online. There are many ways to receive instruction on playing the guitar, but most of the work must be done by your child. Learning to play any instrument requires a great deal of dedication and practice and the guitar is no different. It takes time to develop a familiarity with the positions for notes and chords and it also takes time to build up calluses on the fingers so that plucking the strings is not painful. As your child learns, give them opportunities to show off their skills to friends and family and let them know that you are proud of them for their hard work. Encouraging your child to learn to play the guitar may be one of the best things you can do for them - the skills he or she acquires while learning to play will benefit him or her throughout the rest of his or her life.