When children want to learn an instrument, that can be an encouraging sign. The problem is that paying for a piano instructor or someone similar is just the first hurdle. Learning an instrument is a process, and it can take some time. An essential part of that learning process is practice. The trouble with that is children can sometimes run out of enthusiasm. But childhood boredom should not stall their musical education, so you’ll need to take steps to help them get back on track when it comes to practice. Here are some ways you can boost their motivation and interest in music.
Don’t Pressure Them
One of the biggest ways to kill any enthusiasm for something is external pressure. Do not breathe down your child’s neck to start practicing. The best approach is to give gentle reminders and the like. Another method is to sit them down and explain the need for practice. Children are much smarter than many people give them credit for. To illustrate this, you can look for examples of artists they look up to and show them how much practice they put into things. Some of the best musicians in the world have thousands of hours of practice under their belt. Once they realize how important it is, your child should be willing to practice more often.
Let Them Control The Schedule
Children like to be in control. They have so little of it in their lives that any decision they make feels important. You should use that to your advantage. When possible, you should sit down with your child and discuss their practice schedule. Giving them full control is too much, but setting some limits and asking them their input can change significantly.
For example, you may want to insist on a daily practice. Additionally, you should also set a minimum of 20 minutes a day for younger children’s practice. Teens and above will need longer practice times, but they usually have enough motivation on their own. With time and frequency set, your child can then give their ideas about practice. They may want to do it after school, or they could do it before bedtime. Another option could be to divide the practice into small chunks. Studies show that spaced-out sessions are more effective for learning. Experiment with your child and see what works.
Join the Practice
Being part of your child’s musical education can be a great boost to their motivation. Young children love spending time with their parents. Giving a part of your day to them by joining their practice can be a great sign of support that they will remember for a long time. As for joining in, there are two ways to do it. One is for parents who know how to play the instrument. This is a great learning experience and can be very effective. Children can accept correction from their parents better while parents would know what their child is doing wrong and correct it.
Not all parents are that talented, but they can still contribute. You can listen to the piece that they are practicing and help iron out the more obvious mistakes. Unless you’re completely tone-deaf, you should be able to hum out a tune or two. This can help children fix their performance. Additionally, your presence can be a great encouragement for playing.
Find Some Inspiration Online
Your child needs to have something to aim for. Fortunately, the internet can provide them with that. There are hundreds of sources for blossoming musicians available. They can find sheet music, video performances, and new artists. Set aside some time and do some online searches. This should give you some things to share with your child. You can even download some apps that can help with their musical education. Use these for your practice sessions to mix things up a bit.
Let Them Show Off
Another way to boost your child’s enthusiasm for music is to let them perform. Suggest that they decide on a song that they would like to perform and that you would set a date for them to do so. Even if the audience is only their family, they will want to do their best. As for the performance itself, be as encouraging as possible while also being honest. If it was good, tell them so. If it was bad, tell them that they will do better next time.
Practice makes perfect in many things. Motivating your child to practice their music can be the best thing you can do for their musical education.
