Listening and learning music has a powerful effect on our brain from the minute we are born. Babies are born with billions of brain cells. During the first few years of life these brain cells are busy forming connections and over time these connections grow stronger - forming pathways. Some of these pathways affect the way we think and learn. It has been documented through many clinical trials around the world, that musical training actually creates new pathways in the brain. While performing musical tasks, these pathways are “turned on” and ready to use. However, the effect is only temporary unless the pathways are exercised regularly. In several studies, children who took music lessons for a period of six months actually improved their ability to work puzzles and solve other spatial tasks by 30 percent! In addition to that, learning music also aids in the development of language, speech, self esteem, focus, math skills, creativity, and even fine and gross motor skills. Although it is much better to start music lessons at a very young age, you are never too young or old to begin. As a child, our brain craves stimulation and is hard wired to receive it. As we grow older, the pathways start to require more stimulation in order to make connections. However, our brain is a magnificent piece of engineering, and will continue to make new connections well into old age. Make sure you tell Grandma and Grandpa that they too can greatly benefit from music lessons. For them, learning music can aid in maintaining a clear and focused mind.