Guest Article Written By: Kristin Lems

The Lasting Impact of Arts Education on Children

Every week it seems another article highlights the positive effects of arts education on children’s success and happiness in school. Reports from trusted education outlets have connected arts integration with higher reading and math scores and reduced suspension rates. National arts organizations have noted that deeply engaging in the arts—whether in school or through extracurricular programs—can help narrow achievement gaps among youth. Beyond measurable academic gains, well-known community programs and school ensembles demonstrate the broader social and emotional benefits that arts participation can bring.

The benefits of arts learning extend far beyond simply filling time in the school day. Arts activities build confidence, increase intrinsic motivation, lengthen attention spans, and provide safe, creative outlets for emotions that might otherwise go unexpressed. Gregg Breinberg, the choral director of the celebrated PS22 Chorus in Staten Island, describes how children who struggle to articulate feelings in words often find powerful expression through their singing: “These kids come from families who are having a tough time economically…they have a hard time expressing themselves with words, but through this choral experience, there’s so much emotion there, both coming from them and the people watching them.” For many students—especially those growing up in poverty—school arts programs may be their first and only meaningful exposure to music, visual arts, drama, or dance.

Public enthusiasm for placing the arts at the center of school life is strong. For example, the Los Angeles School Board recently acted to protect and increase funding for arts programs after recognizing a dramatic decline in arts funding over recent years. Such decisions reflect a growing awareness that creative subjects are not extras but essential to a well-rounded education. Yet, despite this awareness, arts programs remain vulnerable. In the race to raise standardized test scores, the arts are too often among the first budget items cut—even though these programs can be among the most effective ways to engage students and improve their overall school experience.

Research shows that the effects of arts education last into adulthood and influence quality of life in later years. Beyond test scores, arts experiences help children develop skills that support lifelong learning: collaboration, perseverance, focus, creativity, and emotional literacy. These competencies contribute to healthier social relationships and greater resilience in the face of challenges, which in turn support better outcomes across many areas of life.

On a personal note, I often leave classroom visits feeling as uplifted as the children I work with. After singing for preschool groups at two Montessori schools, I watched children light up as they learned new rhythms, hand movements, and melodies. Their delight, concentration, and sense of accomplishment reminded me that something important is taking place in that circle on the rug—an experience that matters both for the children and for the adults who witness it. Those moments of shared joy and learning brighten my day and reinforce why arts education deserves consistent support.

For parents, educators, and community members who care about the well-being and development of children, preserving strong arts programs in local schools is an actionable priority. Advocate for arts funding, volunteer in school music and arts programs, and share the value of the arts with school boards and policymakers. If the arts touched your life, remember how it felt—and help ensure that the next generation has equal access to those life‑affirming experiences.

Additional research and reports about the benefits of arts education can be found through national foundations and policy organizations that study arts and learning. These resources provide evidence and examples that can support advocacy efforts and guide program development.

Kristin Lems, Ed.D., is a professor and professional folksinger based in the Chicago area.