Parenting My Teen

This is the third article in the series “Teen After School Activities”. You can read the other articles here and here.

One of the most gratifying aspects of joining a school band or choir for teens is seeing the proud faces of their parents when they perform at graduations or school musicals.

Most schools around the country have bands and choirs. They not only perform at special events, but in some areas of the country these school bands and choirs visit nursing homes and the department of education events to showcase their talents.

There was a wonderful movie shown recently, based on a true story, with Richard Dreyfuss in which he was the designated music teacher in school. He taught teens who had never played an instrument before and little by little brought out the best performance in each and every one of them. In addition, he instilled confidence and high self-esteem in these teens. One teen, who was extremely shy, went on to become a congresswoman.

Having teens in a band or choir instills discipline, responsibility, and a keen sense of self-worth as they progress during the school year. Music brings out the best in people, but especially teens who are unsure of their status and who have a problem with socialization.

So too, singing in a school choir can afford a teen the opportunity to go on to develop a love for opera, pop, rock, country, and all forms of musical genres. The show American Idol is evidence of how far a teen can go if he or she has the strength and courage to sing for incredibly large audiences. The experience alone is worth the effort.

After School activities in band and choir can afford teens the opportunity to achieve greatness in whatever they aspire to become, whether it has to do with music or not. Studies have shown that students who participate in some type of music program have better concentration skills and are less likely to get into trouble.

So encourage your teen to join the band or choir at school. Then give them the support they need in order to be successful by helping them plan their activities and attending as many performances as possible. Your teen will feel you value their decisions and that you are proud of them and love them. Nothing is more important to a teen than feeling loved by their parents, even if they’re not conscious of that need.

For further help and guidance check out Helping Your Teen Through High School.