H1: Why Parents Force Kids to Learn Instruments: A Closer Look at Benefits and Harm
Many parents believe forcing their children to learn musical instruments is the best way to set them up for future success. However, is this belief justified? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind parents’ insistence, the benefits and drawbacks of these decisions, and what truly matters in a child’s growth and development.
Enforcing Musical Lessons: An Unfortunate Trend
Parents often believe learning an instrument will bring long-term benefits to their child, but let's take a closer look at this. The author of this piece, originally from Kerala, India, shares his experience with piano lessons, stating that it has not provided any significant long-term benefits for him. Instead, it has been more of a hindrance to his enjoyment of life.
The most common reason parents want their kids to learn music or any extracurricular activity is for the kids' sake. However, it often backfires when the child is not genuinely interested. In fact, some parents may be more interested in their child’s participation in a talent show, such as singing, dancing, or other similar competitions, rather than the child's personal growth or enjoyment.
Cultural Awareness and Financial Rewards
In India, particularly in Kerala, there is an annual event called the Youth Festival (Yuvajanolsavam). This festival aims to develop cultural awareness and offers scholarships for winners. This provides a tangible benefit for both the children and their parents. However, these benefits should be realized through genuine interest and enjoyment of the activity, rather than just for the prizes.
The Right Way and the Wrong Way
Learning arts or sports can be very beneficial, but it is essential to follow the right approach. Many Indian parents think they know what is best for their children, but this often leads to overbearing pressure, causing distress to the children. It is crucial for parents to engage with their children, observe and understand their interests, and avoid imposing unwanted activities.
Benefits of Learning Instruments
Learning an instrument can instill discipline and teach children to work hard. It also helps them understand the importance of patience and perseverance as they strive for perfection. However, these benefits are more likely to be realized if the child is genuinely interested in the activity.
There are several reasons why parents might encourage their children to learn music, despite their reluctance. The first is the belief in the correlation between music and future academic and professional success. The skills learned from music, such as self-discipline and teamwork, can indeed be valuable. But these benefits are more significant if the child genuinely enjoys music.
Another reason is the potential for college scholarships. Music can be a source of financial support for students who are not majoring in the field. Additionally, there might be a desire for children to follow in the footsteps of a family member, such as an older sibling who excelled in music. However, this approach is often a bad idea, as it implies that the ideal path for a child is to be just like someone else.
The Case of Career Musicians
Interestingly, it is often the parent who is a career musician who enforces musical lessons on their child. This is because for them, the reality of musicianship means much more than the idea of it. It is essential for parents to consider their child's interests and allow them to pursue their passions, rather than forcing them into activities they do not enjoy.
Conclusion
The decision to impose musical lessons on a child is a complex one. While there are potential benefits, it is crucial to consider the child's interests and well-being. Parents should focus on understanding their child's genuine interests and providing them with opportunities to explore and develop these interests. In doing so, they can help their children achieve real success and happiness in life.