Home Practice
Home Practice - getting off to a good start
Many kids will argue from time to time about practicing - this is normal! It’s also totally normal if they don’t. Whatever is going on with your kid, you may want some pointers about practicing.
Here are some general tips about home practice:
I find that picking a time that will work consistently helps. Many of my students make the morning work for them, or as soon as supper is finished. Making practicing part of a routine helps make it something that is expected and normal in your child's day. 10 minutes a day, 4 times a week is much more effective than 1 hour, once a week.
In terms of how long to practice, it will vary by student and by age. More is always better - as long as it is fun!
7-10 minutes for a child aged 5-7
10-20 minutes for a child aged 8-10
20-30 minutes for a child aged 10-14
30+ minutes for a child of highschool age
Don't worry too much about if they're doing exactly what I have asked them to do. As long as they are having a good time at the piano consistently, we will get around to learning everything we need.
I see parent’s role as supporting their child by setting aside time in the day for practice to happen. I don’t expect parents to sit with their child for their whole practice. My goal is to teach them how to practice independently. Young children may need help reading their journals, but most of them have no problem remembering what they are working on.
Here are some ideas for things to say to prompt your young pianist during home practice:
Which hand/finger/note is first? Let's look and see.
Have you read your lesson notes and done all of the tasks?
Did you check off your practice days?
We need to go slow when we're learning. Even I have to go slow sometimes!
Mistakes are OK- they help us learn. I make mistakes all the time.
I'm proud of you, learning the piano is hard!
Wow! Look how much you've already learned.
Hmm, it looks like you’re frustrated. Why not take a break and try again later, when you’re feeling better?
If your child is very upset or argumentative about practicing, it's usually for one of two reasons. Either the music is too easy (this is rare), or they are frustrated because it is too difficult. I will usually discern both of these issues quickly and select different music. However, Sometimes a child will say "This is too easy" when in fact it’s the opposite, or at least it is more complicated than that! Have patience as we begin this new season - together the students and I will find suitable music to work on.
I wish you the best in setting up a routine that works for your family. Happy music making!