As summer winds down, it’s time to start thinking about the upcoming school year! In this article, we’ll explore five key ways to set your child up for success in music this school year.
Set the Right Goals
Every student is unique! In a standardized educational system, this is easy to overlook. Setting the wrong goals can do more harm than good, and in some cases, it might even discourage your child from continuing. It’s important to speak with your child’s teacher to set goals together. Depending on your child’s development, age, and available practice time, these goals can vary significantly!
Choose the Right Teaching Method
There are many methodologies and systems in music education. While no one system is inherently better than another, some are better suited for specific students. Choosing the right program can be crucial in keeping your child engaged in lessons and practice! It’s a good idea to check in with your child’s teacher after a few lessons to see what educational materials they recommend. You can also check out our article on piano method books here to get a taste of what’s out there!
Create a Dedicated Practice Time
Finding time for practice can be challenging! With school, extracurricular activities, sports, and other commitments, children are often busy. By setting a specific day and time each week for practice, you can ensure your child is consistently making progress on their chosen instrument. Consistency is key!
Reward Hard Work
Recognizing and rewarding hard work can go a long way in maintaining motivation! At our school, we use the Musical Ladder testing system, which assesses students every few months and rewards their successes with wristbands and trophies. To reinforce this concept, you could offer your child a sweet treat if they master a specific song or technique! We teachers confess—we practice even harder when chocolate is on the line!
Become Immersed in Music
Listening to music is often overlooked as a vital part of musical education. Children can learn a great deal simply by being exposed to quality music. By making it a habit to play music from artists of high caliber at home and in the car, you can help develop your child’s musical instincts naturally, even away from their instrument.
Closing Notes
Don’y hesitate! Start with back to school music today! If you have any questions about our programs, contact us today. We love nothing more than guiding our students on their musical journeys!
