- enhances fine motor skills
- prepares the brain for achievement
- improves memory
- cultivates thinking skills
- improves recall and retention of verbal information
- teaches patience
- helps make mathematical connections
- builds confidence
- boosts reading and language arts skills
- sharpens attentiveness
- strengthens perseverance
- fosters creativity
- supports study habits
- explores cultural experiences
- provides means for self-expression
- strives for excellence
- shows that hard work does pay off