Music researchers continue to investigate the influence of music on the development of the functions of the brain. Research continues to mount on the positive effect that music, both playing and listening to, have on many facets of development. Possible benefits include improved language development, math ability, and wellness for an ultimate improvement in overall learning.

The American Music Conference (AMC) is a nonprofit music education advocacy association. They have compiled research briefs that provide a quick overview of the benefits of music. The benefits reviewed include higher standardized test scores, better understanding of math/science concepts, improved pattern recognition, and overall academic success. Refer to the American Music Conference for in depth details. In addition, the AMC has sorted the recent developments in music research into the categories of: major research, early childhood, school age, and adults. Along with these categories they provide links to sites with summaries. To access the data refer to the American Music Conference - Music and the Brain. To find detailed information and links regarding music and overall wellness refer to the American Music Conference – Music and Wellness.

With the growing recognition of music and its important role in learning, musical toys and instruments are becoming vital additions to a child’s play environment. Click the button labeled “music/instruments” and browse the catalog. Many toys, instruments and CD’s are available to cultivate a love of music in both you and your child.