Pick up the school music lesson slack at home, parents advised

The opportunity to learn through music, is a vital way to encourage a child’s creative development – no matter who irritating the sound.

Playing music/noise also helps children to develop communication skills and improve literacy and maths.

But with government funds for music in schools being cut from £82.5m a year to £60m, picking up the lesson shortfalls in schools is again, down to mum.

Persil is encouraging parents and children to get involved with music making at home and is working with Sophie Ellis Bextor.

Sophie says: “Creativity and a love of music were passed onto me by my parents and I’m doing the same with my own kids. To me, music is all about having fun and getting stuck in which is why I’m encouraging families across the country to get involved with music at home.”

The theme for the initiative is Getting Messy with Music – obviously linking in with Persil. And for those who have to cut back on extra violin lessons, or have no idea where to start with music, Sophie and Persil have come up with the following ideas.

1. The Mama’s and the Papas: Invest in quality time with your child to develop their creativity, not just for helping with homework! Make instruments from household items, create a stage in the back garden or make up rhythms and lyrics to your own song. Children experience instant gratification through these simple activities.

2. Little Lady Gagas: Dress up and recreate their favourite bands, then perform on stage as a family. This role-play helps to develop a child’s imagination and broaden their mind, while the family participation encourages social interaction.

3. Turn Tiny Terrors into Tinie Tempahs: Stick the washing machine on, turn the radio up and have a ‘Mosh and Wash’. Encourage your kids to jump around and make noise free from judgement! Children who are encouraged to exhibit creativity will feel more confident in later life.