So, your young musician is starting to bring an instrument home for practice. Here are 6 six things you can do to guarantee their success and enjoyment!
- Frequency is far more important than duration. It is better for your student to practice 15 minutes each day for 5 days than to practice once for an hour the night before their class. Technique, strength, and retention are built up in small, steady doses over time.
- Establish a regularly scheduled time for your child’s practice. First thing when they get home from school, immediately before/after dinner (make sure they brush their teeth before playing!), or as part of usual “homework time” can all work well. Having that routine increases the likelihood that practicing will happen.
- Consider setting aside a corner of your home as a “Practice Space.” Make sure it has a sturdy chair, a metronome, and leave their music stand set up with a pencil on it. Also, make sure it is free of distractions (TV, phone, siblings, etc.). The more convenient and special practicing is, the easier it is for them to be motivated to put in the work.
- If you’re hearing the same songs (that they can already play) over and over again, they might need to be reminded to work on something that they can’t play yet!
- Though your student’s playing may be a little rough on the ears, especially at the start, don’t send them out to the garage or put them in a closet to practice. It communicates a message that they don’t want to be heard. If they’re somewhere more visible, they’ll feel more supported (and you can keep an eye on their focus too!).
- Ask your child to perform for you often! They will love getting to show their work, and it communicates your investment.