Created by Bretislav Pojar.
National Film Board of Canada, Canada

Article 6: Children have the right to survive and develop to the fullest.

What does it mean to survive? The circumstances children face today are certainly challenging, to say the least. Many children around the world, including the Philippines, are born into situations such as war and poverty. And what does it mean to “develop to the fullest”?

If we think of a seed, we consider that in order for it to grow it needs key elements: good soil, water, enough sunlight, protection from weeds and insects. Our children definitely have greater needs than those. In Manila alone, it is not a rare occurrence to be approached by a street child, or have your window tapped by a hungry orphan. When we think of the children we have in our lives, we know that they certainly need more than just food and clothing. Children need attention, they need to understand their worth (that they are wonderful just as they are) and how one day they will do things that should have a positive effect on society.

We may all agree that these elements are important. But I also have wondered: what role would music have to play in the life of a child merely wanting to survive? Would music still be necessary or essential?

I believe that music has much benefit in a child’s life - not only as a means of enjoyment through listening, but also as a means of creative expression and a celebration of the individual. Music is a positive activity that can build self-esteem, inspire ideas, and help manage emotions.

To develop to the fullest, I believe children should be given a chance to explore their gifts, find out what they enjoy doing, and be encouraged to choose well for themselves. We may want certain things for them, and have strong opinions about what activities children should be immersed in. But in the end, a child should be given a chance to decide on his own, for when he is a fully-grown adult he will have to know how to discern and choose well for himself.

I believe a fully-developed child is one that is at peace with himself, aware of his giftings, confident in his interactions with the world, and able to be generous, knowing very well that his choices affect others. I also believe that this child will be able to express himself in a positive manner in whatever medium he chooses to use - whether it is through conversation, or the arts. And this is why I know music must be a big part of a child’s life. Through interacting with music (and other art forms), he understands himself better because he is free to be himself.

If you’re wanting to introduce music to a child you are in contact with, I suggest to begin with classical music. Have it playing softly as the child enjoys play time or even study time. Wait for him to ask about or react to what he is hearing. If classical music is too “weird” for you, jazz is also a good place to start. Because the music is instrumental, it allows for a child to imagine. You can even ask the child to draw, write or sculpt clay while you are both listening to music.

These are just suggestions of course. Whatever kind of music you introduce, please do screen the lyrics first. You can also tell your child about the artist, or the kind of music you have chosen. Allow him to tell you what he thinks, and be fully attentive and receptive. Who knows, you might enjoy it so much that you’ll have a regular “listening session” at home

Have any thoughts to share? Feel free to comment or email us at info@republikha.org