The arts had a definite place in ancient Greek education and played an important part in children's physical, emotional, social, and intellectual growth. Education was based on the development of the whole person. Gymnastics, drawing, music, and poetry were used to increase physical strength, moral character, and a sense of the aesthetic. Music, dance, poetry, and art made up an individual's sense of identity within ancient Greek culture, and Greece's most influential philosophers, including Plato and Aristotle, argued this point. Aristotle's "Poetics" is still one of the best arguments for the importance of arts education. Modern research indicates that music, dance, and art lessons change the course of brain development and may influence children's success in other, non-artistic tasks. Unfortunately, arts education is frequently viewed as an expendable diversion. There are several reasons a parent may want to invest in instruction beyond the school classroom. One of the greatest benefits of art lessons is that children can learn at their own pace, often outside of what would be considered average for their age. Gifted children thrive in environments where there is no glass ceiling on learning. By supporting their children's arts education, parents can help them develop across all dimensions and realize their full potential.