Brief music training in preschoolers can boost verbal intelligence and brain plasticity
In short: Researchers who developed interactive computerized programs for preschool children found that just 20 days of music training significantly improved verbal intelligence. While a visual art program did not produce the same results, the music group showed a marked increase in cognitive performance, with 90% of the children in that group experiencing the gain.
The study suggests that high-level cognitive skills can be transferred to untrained activities in early childhood. The researchers linked these verbal improvements to changes in brain plasticity during tasks involving executive function. However, the study's scope is limited to a short-term intervention and does not track long-term retention of these skills.
The study was conducted using a controlled training design comparing two different types of interactive computer programs. A primary limitation is the short duration of the training period, which may not reflect permanent developmental changes.
Why it matters: Early childhood is a critical window where targeted activities like music can spark broader cognitive development.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Research: Moreno et al. (2011). Short-Term Music Training Enhances Verbal Intelligence and Executive Function. Psychological Science.
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