In today’s digital world, children spend more time on screens than ever before—from watching videos and playing games to scrolling through social media. While technology has its benefits, excessive screen time can negatively impact focus, creativity, and emotional well-being.
As parents look for healthier, more engaging activities, music lessons provide the perfect alternative. Learning an instrument offers children a creative and productive outlet that enhances cognitive skills, fosters discipline, and builds confidence. At Oregon City Music Academy, we believe that music is more than just a hobby—it’s a lifelong skill that helps children grow in ways screens never can.
This March, help your child swap screen time for music time by enrolling them in lessons that will nurture their creativity, discipline, and passion for learning.
The Screen Time Dilemma: How Much Is Too Much?
Studies show that the average child spends between 4 to 6 hours per day on screens, with teens logging even more time. While some digital activities are educational, excessive screen time can lead to:
Decreased attention span – Fast-paced videos and games can make it harder for kids to focus on longer tasks. Reduced social skills – Too much screen time replaces real-world interactions and teamwork. Sleep disturbances – Blue light from screens disrupts melatonin production, making it harder for children to sleep. Less physical activity – Sitting in front of a screen for hours can contribute to a sedentary lifestyle.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends balancing screen time with interactive and creative activities—which is where music lessons come in!
Why Music Lessons Are the Perfect Alternative to Screen Time
Instead of spending hours staring at a screen, children can engage in a fulfilling and skill-building activity like learning an instrument. Here’s how children’s music lessons provide a healthier and more rewarding alternative:
Boosts Focus & Attention – Unlike fast-moving digital content, playing an instrument requires sustained attention and patience. Encourages Creativity – Learning to play music allows kids to express themselves in ways screens never can. Develops Discipline & Time Management – Music lessons teach children the value of practice, goal-setting, and perseverance. Improves Emotional Well-Being – Playing music reduces stress, boosts mood, and enhances emotional intelligence. Builds Confidence & Social Skills – Performing music in front of others helps children develop self-esteem and teamwork abilities.
By replacing passive screen time with active music-making, kids can develop lifelong habits of creativity and focus.
Music Lessons Offer a Hands-On, Interactive Experience
Unlike scrolling through a screen, playing an instrument engages multiple parts of the brain. Kids must:
Read notes and understand timing (visual learning). Coordinate finger movements and technique (motor skills). Listen carefully to pitch and rhythm (auditory processing). Express emotions through sound (emotional intelligence).
This interactive process strengthens cognitive function, making music lessons a fun and educational alternative to screen time.
Spring Is the Best Time to Start a New Hobby
March is the perfect time for kids to build healthy habits before summer. By starting music lessons now, children can:
Develop a new skill before school is out – Giving them confidence and momentum before summer break. Replace excess screen time with a creative activity – Keeping their minds engaged in a productive way. Be ready for summer recitals and performances – Giving them a fun goal to work toward.
If your child is spending too much time on screens, music lessons provide an enriching alternative that keeps them engaged and learning.
Find the Right Instrument for Your Child
Not sure what instrument is the best fit? At Oregon City Music Academy, we offer music lessons for a wide range of instruments so every child can find something they love:
Piano Lessons – A great instrument for building musical knowledge and technique. Learn more. 
Violin & Electric Violin Lessons – Perfect for students who love classical or contemporary music. Explore violin lessons. 
Guitar & Electric Guitar Lessons – Ideal for kids who love rock, pop, and modern music styles. Ukulele & Mandolin Lessons – Fun, easy-to-learn stringed instruments that spark creativity. Cello, Viola, and Table Harp/Kantele Lessons – Unique choices for kids who love expressive and rich sounds.
Our experienced instructors help students explore their interests and find an instrument that suits their personality and learning style.
Reduce Screen Time and Start Music Lessons Today!
This spring, give your child a hobby that fosters creativity, discipline, and confidence. Music lessons provide a healthy, engaging alternative to excessive screen time, helping kids develop skills that last a lifetime.
Contact us today at (503) 880-4880 to schedule an appointment, text us, or use our convenient online form to enroll. Let’s make 2025 a year of music, learning, and personal growth!
