It has been said that children who play an instrument score better on standardized tests.  While I haven't conducted any studies personally, it does make sense to me that music could have an impact on the ability to learn.  And why shouldn't we try to give our kids every advantage possible?  Since I continually feel the pressure of my students doing well on all of the dreaded mandated tests, I am all for any techniques even if they only improve 1%.  Now I'm not suggesting that everyone has to run out and enroll their child in a music class or they won't do well on "the test."  (Although, it would be nice if every person knew how to play an instrument.  I, myself, know how to play a flute, and hopefully in the future I will be able to play a piano.)  However, I do think that it would be very beneficial for children to be exposed to many genres of music in different formats to allow the creative side of the brain get a workout every once in a while.  Here are some ideas to help incorporate more music into your child's daily life:

     - Buy video games that have a focus on music.  Examples of such games include:  Dance Dance Revolution, Sing Star, American Idol, Guitar Hero, and Rock Band.

     - Download a variety of songs or check out CDs at the library.  Try classical, folk, foreign artists, etc. 

     - Make your own instruments.  Use an old oatmeal container for a drum/bongo.  A comb covered with wax paper makes a great kazoo.  It is possible to make a little flute out of a drinking straw.  Maracas can be made out of film canisters and seeds.

     - Recorders can be purchased at a dollar store.  Many times song booklets come with them.  If not, have children try to compose their own songs.

     - Attend a choral or band concert or any other local artist performance.  Better yet, get tickets for the symphony.

     - Watch music programs like Dancing with the Stars or American Idol.  Even watching CMT, VH1 and MTV can be somewhat musically educational (in moderation, of course!) 

     - Gather the family together and play your own version of Name that Tune.

     - View a musical on DVD.  The Sound of Music is a great classic to get.

     - Purchase a karaoke machine for hours of entertainment and enjoyment. 

     - Try buying second hand instruments at garage sales, the Goodwill, or Salvation Army.

So, make the hills come alive with the sound of music for your family.  Who knows?  It just might help them ace all of those upcoming standardized tests.  And that truly is music to hardworking educators everywhere.