Why Music Practice is Different
Music lessons are unique from almost any other after-school activity because practice sessions happen without an instructor or teacher.
Think about it: soccer, baseball, dance, and even art classes include "practice" time as part of the instructional program. And, they involve cooperation with a whole group and leadership from a coach.
When it comes to music lessons, there are no set practice times outside of your dedicated one-on-one instruction time with the teacher. It can also feel lonely.
It is up to you and your children to establish routines that make practice time consistent, comfortable, and enjoyable. While this requires a little extra effort up front, teaching your children the skills they need to structure and engage in independent study will result in a wealth of benefits that extend beyond the instrument and into many areas of their lives. Read on for three strategies to help your children become independent and effective in their home piano practice.
Three Strategies for Effective & Joyful Home Practice:
1. Practice Helpers
Up until the age of 11, your children will need YOUR hands-on help with home practice. And even though you may not read music or play the instrument, your assistance is still very much needed and appreciated by your child!
Parental help can take the form of reading lesson notes, organizing practice time, providing encouragement through difficult sections or situations, and seeking out answers for “I’m stuck on this” problems. Your help at home will make a substantial difference in your children’s progress!
2. Regular Routines
Short, focused, and regular visits to the instrument help your children retain and understand what they are learning, while making the most of their short attention spans.
Setting a regular time of day when practice happens *no matter what* will ensure daily practice routines are easy for your children to maintain. For busy families, morning practice routines often work best. Or, try “piggy-backing” practice time onto another daily activity like dinner. As soon as dinner is done, it is time to practice.
3. Friendly Practice Environments
Placing the instrument in an easy-to-access location increases the likelihood that your children will practice more frequently as they go about their days.
Find a balance between shoving the piano or guitar in the basement vs. putting it in the center of your most-used room. Your music-making area should be a comfortable place, close to where the family is, but away from major distractions. Your children do not want to feel isolated during practice time - but they also do not want to compete with your stovetop or washing machine.
