There are many great reasons to learn an instrument as young as the Preschool years including: a child that shows interest, time to practice as part of the routine before school & homework begin, and that students this age are at a developmental stage where music will become part of who they are, just as learning their native language will be. A big key to a student's success at this age is for parents to know that they have a…
I’m always thrilled when a parent asks me for advice about how to practice better at home! I try to make it clear in parent education that this is something I like to help with & that parents need not struggle through alone. It’s always great when someone takes me up on the offer to problem solve together. Often I have ideas that I’ve come up with, that I’ve heard from wonderful colleagues or we try out new ideas together.
Being a Suzuki Parent can feel like a big to do list : Attend Lessons Take notes Ask the right questions Attend Group Classes & Recitals Make sure your child has all the materials & equipment they need Make sure to listen every day Practice on the days that you eat! The list could go on and on and it's an important list for sure However, on days where it all seems like a bit much - when you wonder…
How is practice going at your house? Does your child start their practice without any nagging or reminding from you? Does your child come to every practice eager to learn and work on their lesson assignments? Does your child stay focused through every practice session so you don't have to remind them to keep going? Does your child work through new material with ease, happy to repeat practice spots in order to master them? You may be able to answer…
There are many rewards that come with practicing at home with your child. You have the opportunity to find out how your child learns new concepts, you have daily one on one time with your child, and you both get to experience music together which can be a great bonding experience. There can also be challenges with daily practice sessions and sometimes getting the instrument out and getting started is the hardest part of all. Young children (I'm…