Kids Can Benefit From New Beatles Video Game

Parents don't have to let their youngster's fascination with the new "Beatles: Rock Band" video game turn into a "Magical Mystery Tour" to nowhere.

Instead of letting them become little "Day Trippers" who only master the game, parents can use the experience to spark a real love for music and even a desire to play a musical instrument, says a Duke University child development expert.

"Video games like this have the potential to spark an interest in music. But to create a long-lasting interest in music, parents also need to provide opportunities for children to use real musical instruments," says Lisa Linnenbrink-Garcia, an assistant professor in developmental psychology and education at Duke.

The much-anticipated game is set for release Sept. 9, and features custom-built models of the instruments played by John, Paul, George and Ringo, as well as many of the band's actual recordings. (More information about the game can be found at http://www.thebeatlesrockband.com.)

"The game allows players to actively play or sing along and choose among a variety of songs. Both active involvement and choice are important features for triggering interest in a new area," says Linnenbrink-Garcia, who studies how parents and teachers can help support children's motivation and is also a violinist with a degree in music.

To develop a deeper and longer-lasting interest in music, however, Linnenbrink-Garcia says children need the opportunity to develop an appreciation and enjoyment of the music itself, rather than the video game only.

"Children also need the opportunity to develop confidence in their music skills, rather than their skill in using a game controller," she says. "To do this, parents should make sure to build upon children's initial interest by giving them opportunities to use real musical instruments and encouraging them to take music lessons."

For more information about Linnenbrink-Garcia, visit her website at http://fds.duke.edu/db/aas/pn/faculty/llinnen.)