I haven’t posted in a while; life has generally taken over with kids work, etc. However, this blog and its meaning still mean a lot to me. In this post, I want to talk about learning an instrument. When I search for “learning an instrument and the benefits for someone with ADHD,” a lot comes up. Some benefits are improved focus, auditory connectivity, cognitive development, social functioning, self-esteem, and memory retention.
As I sit back and think about the benefits, I think about a particular memory that rings true. I remember the day I heard someone play “Heart and Soul.” With my little kid’s piano and help from my dad at home, I spent an entire day learning that song. When I finally got it, my dad jumped in with his guitar to play with me. It was one of those nostalgic moments that I’ll never forget. Without even knowing it, that day, I gained a lot. I learned a new skill, worked with my dad, and experienced many other things.
When I was young, my mom signed me up for piano lessons, an experience I will also never forget. For years, the piano and I were inseparable. The feeling of hyper-focusing on a string of notes and finally playing a song felt like a huge accomplishment. This led to a ripple effect of my dad playing the guitar, my brother on the drums, and my mom occasionally singing together as a family. These memories will always bring me back to reminisce.
Music is a part of me, and I feel it’s a part of my family. I also think it has given us a lot: a way to focus when we need to decompress, hyperfocus when we need to feel inspired and bond together as a family. I believe these traditions will carry on throughout my own family. I can see it with my kids, my daughter loves to sing and dance, and my son is interested in playing the guitar.
If there’s one thing I’d like everyone to take away from this post, it’s that playing an instrument, whether it’s your voice, “Hot Cross Buns” on the flute, or any other, brings many benefits. It can be just for you or to bring you, your family, and friends together.