Anthony KaDarrell ThigpenAUTISM ACADEMY FOR EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT – AAED music and art students sparked a sense of joy into the Christmas season. AAED musical is proof that music is more than inspiration. Students played instruments, sang solos and blended their voices with the school chorus during the recent concert. Traditional holiday carols like Jingle Bells, Silent Night and We Wish You a Merry Christmas are just a few songs that echoed throughout Life Community Church in Gilbert. Meanwhile, AAED art teacher Amy Floyd and music teacher Joseph Arick combined their student’s talents to host a midweek celebration prior to the upcoming Sensitive Santa event. Winter Night of the Arts was a fine arts festivity, complete with holiday music, portable art displays and prizes. More than 200 friends and family nibbled on gluten-free cupcakes, sipped hot chocolate, and mingled amongst school leaders. Assistant Director of Programs Lauren Gray, Assistant Director Katie Neider, and Special Services Director Kalona Newcomb gave seasons greetings to the autism community. Children chose caps and other holiday accessories before joining hands with family to capture memories in the event photo booth. The event inspired listeners and performers alike. According to the National Association of Music Education, research proves that music benefits learners in 20 different ways. Musical training helps develop language and reasoning. It helps with memorization. It improves student work by promoting craftsmanship. Music improves hand-eye coordination and motor skills. It gives students a sense of achievement. It keeps kids interested in school. Music is the fabric of our society strengthening opportunities of success and character. It causes students to develop more empathy towards other cultures. Students learn pattern recognition. It’s proven that music students score higher on the SAT. It fine-tunes auditory skills. Music builds imagination and intellectual curiosity. It’s relaxing. It teaches discipline. Investing in creative education prepares students for the 21st century workforce. Music helps students think creatively which aids in problem solving. It has the ability to develop spatial intelligence which is helpful in advanced mathematics. Music promotes teamwork. The anxiety of performances teaches kids how to take healthy and responsible risks. Lastly, music builds better self-confidence. The AAED music and art programs are giving hope to children and families in and out of school.