Why Magic Is a Great Hobby for Kids
A sense of magic and wonder are just as essential to a child as their education. Without that inherent curiosity — the force that compels them to explore and discover — they can quickly lose their enthusiasm to learn and grow. They can also struggle to develop into creative people with the ability to express themselves.
In today's turbulent climate, children need an escape from the realities of the world. Magic provides that escape, a small fantasy that teaches them to work outside conventional modes of thinking to arrive at inventive solutions. More than a hobby for their early adolescence, magic has many practical benefits.
In this article, we'll detail a few of the reasons why every parent should get their son or daughter involved in magic. Starting with...
The Value of Imagination
The value of imagination is indisputable. A mathematician can memorize every formula in every textbook, know every major equation forward and back, and still contribute nothing of significance to their field — simply because they're unable to approach a concrete subject in an abstract way.
The limitations of a two-dimensional mindset can hinder a child from making progress, and an overreliance on logic hurts more than it helps. With magic, children appreciate the complexity of problems, aware that things are not always as they seem. This fosters creativity which will aid them in the future.
The Value of Fluency
Many older people cherish childhood memories of performing magic in front of a congregation of smiling adults. Regardless of experience or planning, a magic show is an excellent way to encourage children to face a group without fear or anxiety, strengthening their prowess in public speaking.
Children will learn that their ability to speak with fluency and charisma is integral to their success, in school and elsewhere. Honing this highly marketable skill from an early age ensures their competence in the workforce, and prepares them for jobs where they're expected to address an audience.
The Value of Confidence
Professional magicians are typically confident, articulate people who don't shy away from social interactions, always seeking out a new crowd to impress with their skills. Their job requires a self-assured levelheadedness, always ready to adapt to new situations, accounting for any potential mistakes.
Research found that a single magic lesson for young students between the ages of 10 and 12 resulted in "dramatic psychological effects," increasing both their sociability and confidence. The study determined that magic was actually more effective than standard lessons used to improve self-esteem.
The Value of Sharing
Magic brings delight, not only to the child who's performing but to their audience. The more a young person learns about their hobby, the more they'll want to share it with those around them. The desire to spread this happiness expands their social circle, teaching them lessons about friendship.
Prompting a child to adopt a social pastime benefits both them and the people around them. The amateur magician gains a sense of satisfaction from successfully completing a trick, and their spectators get to enjoy a simple sleight of hand or interesting contraption that makes them think.
With the Wave of a Magic Wand...
A parent can bring joy into their son or daughter's life. With all of the distractions and diversions that are meant to monopolize a child's time, it's important to make use of their early years. Introducing them to a hobby like magic will set them in the right direction and equip them with the skills they need to excel.
Who knows... They might end up the next Houdini.