August 1, 2022
How To Encourage Your Child To Practice Their Instrument
Teaching your child to play a musical instrument with guitar lessons or other music lessons can be rewarding in many ways. Not only is your child learning to hone their skills in music, but playing an instrument can be a great way to help them fine-tune motor skills, boost cognitive thinking and problem solving skills, and teach them how fulfilling expressing themselves through creativity can be. However, for young minds, practicing in between piano lessons or guitar lessons can feel very different than playing their instrument, so helping them to get in the habit of practicing can be difficult. At the California Conservatory of Music, we’re here to help parents like you encourage your child to practice so they can hone their instrumental skills in between their music lessons!
Recognize They Are Trying
A common trap we find parents falling into is the pursuit of “perfection.” While this is generally well-meaning, some children may find the pressure of achieving musical perfection too much and develop an aversion to practicing around others. Avoid this pitfall by recognizing that your child is trying their best when they practice, instead. Encouragement is key when it comes to fostering a love of music and healthy practicing habits! If your child seems to be struggling to practice, try talking to them to understand where any frustrations may be coming from, and either provide them with insight or write it down as a question to ask during their next music lesson.
Verbally Express Their Improvements
Many parents know that expressing pride or that you’re impressed is a great way to encourage children to continue with good habits. Practicing music is no different! When your child is learning and improving in their guitar lessons or their piano lessons, you can continue to encourage their progress by verbally expressing that you see them improving. Little comments noting that you recognize the hard work and dedication they’ve invested in their instrument can go a long way toward encouraging good practicing habits.
Listen To Them Play
One of the best ways to improve your child’s confidence in practice and encouraging them to continue playing is to listen to them! Music is all about creative expression and sharing the beauty of melodies and harmonies, so show your child that you appreciate their creativity by sitting down to listen to their music, and once they’re done playing, offer up compliments on aspects you liked about their playing! If they ask for constructive criticism, provide a note or two on things they may improve on, but try to keep it positive so they don’t get discouraged!
Set Up a Routine of Practice
Humans are often creatures of habit. From waking up at the same time every day to eating dinner together every evening, children grow and benefit from structure throughout the stages of childhood. To that end, encouraging your child to practice for their piano lessons or guitar lessons at the same time every day can be a game changer! By encouraging a routine, your child is more likely to develop healthy practicing habits for their instrument.
Learn more about piano lessons for beginners, guitar lessons, or children’s music lessons, all available from the California Conservatory of Music. Get started with lessons for your child by contacting us today!