SELF ESTEEM
Self-esteem. It means pride,
self-respect, dignity and confidence. Some people have it and some
people don't. Why? No one knows for sure. But self esteem seems
to be a combination of hard work, challenging oneself and looking at
the bright side of things.
One of the best ways for a child
to reap the rewards of self-esteem is by learning to play the piano.
Taking piano lessons at an early age is a tremendous confidence
builder. What other form of "exercise" allows a child to challenge
himself or herself to the fullest by reading two lines of music, while
simultaneously using both ears, arms, legs, feet, and all ten fingers.
Once a child puts the energy into playing the piano, he or she starts
to notice results, and begins to develop a new found confidence in
completing tasks.
There are many ways that a child
can develop a healthy sense of self. Encouragement and a positive
attitude are of great help. These are traits that a music teacher can
truly bring out in a student. Piano teachers know that "constructive
criticism" and praise go a long way in helping a child feel good about
what he or she has accomplished. Few children will become concert
pianists. But virtually every one who takes piano lessons will benefit
from increased concentration, coordination, and self-esteem.
Children who learn piano are
more likely to have feelings of self worth because they are constantly
challenging themselves. Sure, they may fail along the way. But
as long as they're moving forward, trying to improve their abilities,
they'll succeed in many ways that go beyond just learning to
play music.
True self-esteem develops when a
child not only learns something, but feels that he or she has a
mastery over the subject. Even if a child can't play a piece of music
to perfection, as long as he feels he's completed a tough assignment,
he'll have the confidence to move on and try new things.
A child won't instantly develop
self-esteem just by sitting down at a piano. It takes time and hard
work. But the benefits that carry over from learning piano - better
concentration in school work, improved interaction with peers and a
feeling of self worth all help a child to keep his grades and his head
up high.
