Practice Tips for Parents!!!
1. Designate a specific spot for practice in your home. Children will be more productive in their practice sessions if their music and instrument is always in the same place waiting for them. Keep this area clear of clutter and distractions. It is best if this area is someplace where you can interact with your child while he/she is practicing.
2. Keep the practice intervals short. 100 minutes is a long time to practice in one sitting! If your child breaks each practice session up in 10 or 15 minute intervals you may find it easier for him/her to complete the minutes in a productive and positive way!
3. Keep things POSITIVE! Playing an instrument is an extremely personal and exposed endeavor. Unlike math or reading, everyone present in the home at the time of practice is aware of the child’s progress on his/her instrument. Positive reinforcement, encouragement, and acknowledgement of improvement are key to keep your child motivated!
4. Be involved in the practice times! Parents often find success by referring to practice time as “Concert time.” Children are more apt to work at their music and enjoy what they are doing if they know that it is bringing joy to you as well!
5. Use the homework site. I place very detailed assignments on the homework site that will help you guide your children in their practice.
6. Never use practice as a punishment! Parents often make the mistake of using practice time as punish time: “Go to your room and practice! You are punished!” The negative association with practice time will haunt you and your child forever. Practice time should be an enjoyable time, a routine procedure, etc. It should never, ever be a punishment.
7. Listen to as much music as possible in your homes and cars! It does not matter the style, the year it was recorded, the type of instruments involved. The more music you listen to the more your child will grow as a musician and will naturally be encouraged to practice.
8. Check out live music!