THE INSTRUMENTS FOR SUCCESS
So where will your next Family Retreat With a Purpose take you? Beyond the destination, I encourage you to think about the Foundational, Intellectual, and Financial Dimension “landmarks” you plan to “visit.” What are your goals? What does your family need to develop? Maybe it’s more teamwork. Perhaps it’s greater communication and connection? Consider your larger goals, and let that guide you as you plan your inspirational and fun activities. I wish you all the excitement and legacy- building fun that will come from your future Retreats With a Purpose!
HOW LEARNING TO PLAY MUSIC BENEFITS CHILDREN
What are your children’s favorite activities when looking for something to do? Some prefer reading, while others like to draw, write, or play with friends. While all of these talents will benefit your children and strengthen their Foundational Dimension, an activity that is often overlooked is playing musical instruments. Many kids get their first taste of music when they enter middle school and show interest in playing in a band or orchestra. But you don’t have to wait until your child is in school to get them started with music! Starting at age 4, your child will be in the perfect state to begin learning how to play, and you’ll quickly notice the benefits they gain, such as these three. IMPROVED PATIENCE Learning to play an instrument for the first time is not easy. Developing the skills necessary to play takes time, effort, and practice. This process can sometimes be frustrating, but with effort and persistence, children can gradually improve their skills and master complex pieces. Likewise, if children play in a group, they may have to wait their turn to play their part in a song, which also helps them develop focusing skills and patience. PROPER RESPONSIBILITY AND TIME MANAGEMENT Musical instruments are costly and require maintenance to ensure they stay in good condition. By entrusting your child with an instrument, you’re giving them the responsibility of taking care of it. Teach them how to clean their instrument and store it properly. Additionally, they’ll have to learn how to follow a practice schedule, which teaches time management skills and how to avoid procrastination. ENHANCED SELF-ESTEEM Learning to play a new song or chord can make any music student proud! They accomplished something they set their mind to, making them feel more confident about themselves and fostering a desire to keep improving. As they continue playing, their confidence and self-esteem will bloom. This will also give them an outlet for their creative endeavors, which will help them be more comfortable with who they are. Music can also bring your family together. Check out Emron’s article on Page 2 to read about how he supports his daughters’ passions for piano and violin. Participating in their lessons, practices, and performances brings his tightknit family even closer.
–Doug Andrew
FUN FOOD IDEAS
Getting together with the family? Here’s one of our favorite summertime treats! LEMON BARS
CRUST
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1 cup soft butter
½ cup powder sugar
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Dash of salt
2 cups flour
Combine and press into a greased (buttered) 9x13 pan. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes.
FILLING
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¼ cup flour
6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Powdered sugar, for dusting
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2 cups sugar
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4 eggs
Combine and spread on top of partially baked crust. Bake at 350° for 25 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar when it comes out of the oven.
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