Let your child know you are there if he needs help, and that all he has to do is ask you. Then, don’t give him the answer; help him to break down the problem to find the solution.
5.) Practicing is a learned skill. In music, there are so many new skills being learned and subsequently in need of practice. There are new sounds to be recognized, a new language to read and new physical skills to be mastered.
But to simplify the definition of practice; practice is just breaking down a larger chunk into smaller, doable sections. Really, it is just problem solving with a musical instrument. To make practice effective, goals must be set and the learner must be clear on what he is trying to accomplish and what needs to be done to accomplish the goal. A person can practice for hours and get nothing accomplished whereas sometimes a lot gets accomplished in a short time. It depends on how clear the goal is.
Other ways you can help your child is to just listen to him play. Everybody likes to know that others are interested in what they are doing. Besides listening to your child play, listen to music with your child. You don’t have to actively sit down and put on a CD, but have music playing A LOT. Play music in the house and in the car. Remember, music is a language, and by hearing it, it is easier to learn.
If you hear your child make a mistake, don’t say “NO!” and correct him. Let him work it out for himself. Also, if your child gets constant negative feedback, I guarantee you she won’t practice and WILL eventually quit. Be encouraging. Don’t just give your child empty praise, choose something specific and let him know what you liked. “Hey, I felt sleepy when you played that slow part,” or “You played that part so smoothly. I know you have been working hard on that.”
Learning music is a lifelong endeavor, and with it comes many obstacles as well as much enjoyment. As a parent, you play an important role in assisting your child and his teacher in creating an experience that is positive. Most of all sit back and enjoy the sounds of music that will fill your home.
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