Musical Education in Kindergarten. Importance on the quality of life in children

Abstract

Introduction: musical education in early childhood is a crucial component for holistic development, promoting cognitive, emotional, and social skills. This systematic review explores the impact of musical education on preschool children, emphasizing the Latin American and Argentine contexts. Method: a systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Studies from 2000 to 2023 focusing on the effects of musical education in children aged 36 years were included. Databases like Scopus, PubMed, ERIC, and SciELO were searched using keywords such as “musical education,” “preschool,” and “child development.” Data extraction covered demographics, study design, interventions, and outcomes. Study quality was assessed using the CASP checklist. Results: the review highlights that musical education significantly enhances cognitive development, improving memory, attention, and mathematical skills. Emotional and social benefits include better emotional expression, empathy, and cooperation. Active musical practices, such as singing and using simple instruments, foster creativity and selfesteem. In Latin America and Argentina, musical education reinforces cultural identity and promotes inclusion, albeit with challenges like resource disparities and teacher training limitations. Conclusions: musical education in preschool is a powerful tool for holistic development, with well-documented cognitive, emotional, and social benefits. In Latin America and Argentina, it also serves as a cultural and inclusive practice. Efforts should focus on reducing inequalities in access to resources and strengthening teacher training programs.