Preschool children learning to analyze information and solve
problems using language-based reasoning thrive when taught using
music, a new Canadian study has found. In the study, 48 children
between the ages of four and six took part in computer-based,
cognitive training programs that were projected onto a classroom
wall. The lessons were delivered by colourful, animated cartoon
characters. The children were divided into two groups: One
received music-based training while the second group was given
visual arts training. Both groups received two hour-long
training sessions a day for four weeks, led by instructors from
The Royal Conservatory in Toronto. The children were then tested
for their verbal IQ, which included looking at their ability to
recall words, analyze information and solve problems using
language. When the children were retested five to 20 days after
the end of the lessons, those who had the visual arts training
didn't have a significant increase in verbal intelligence. But
for those who had the