Whether you want to learn to play, or you have children you would like to teach to play, this book is the answer to your search. Written by a concert guitarist who has taught university and private classes for many years. Recognized as a master teacher of music--and of the teaching of the joys and techniques of making the music through the guitar. Scientific research indicates playing the guitar benefits a child's emotional and cognitive development. It confirms that playing an instrument helps verbal memory, second-language pronunciation, the ability to read and write, as well as their cognitive thinking skills. Children with music training enjoy better academic performance. Some of the research suggests playing an instrument impacts intelligence including better scores on IQ tests. Of course, it depends on the intensity and duration of the practice time. Other benefits of music training, supported by scientific research, are the development of memory skills, greater ability to concentrate, improved motor skills, as well as improved calculating and pattern-recognition skills. Additionally, playing the guitar helps children develop goal-oriented self-help behavioral skills; such as breaking down large intimidating tasks into small achievable goals. Developing a step by step approach to problem solving leads to success; which, in turn, helps children acquire an appetite for self-discipline, which in turn results in achievement