I've received this question several times over the course of my career. How can I help my child succeed? What can I do to help at home?
Student - Teacher
My role as a teacher of course is to teach how to play the piano, but also to teach how to practice. To help motivate, encourage, guide and ultimately foster a love of music. It is my job to make sure students have all the tools they need to practice effectively at home and to communicate them clearly to both the student and the parent. I always write tips, reminders and often set goals for weekly practice in the students notebook.
Teacher - Parent
The teacher - parent role is ultimately communication. I will always try my best to communicate tips which will help to ensure better practice and success at home. Communication is a two way street and I trust that any issues throughout the week will be communicated back to me so I can help address them during the lesson. Make sure you are reading all communication in all forms: notebook, email, text and I always welcome questions.
Parent - Student
I only see the student one day a week, the other 6 days a week the parent needs to be the teacher. I often hear parents say that their child doesn't want to practice. I like to ask if they want to brush their teeth? Children are not necessarily going to want to practice. That is normal. Here are some things to you can do help:
-Help your child to establish a consistent and daily practice routine.
-Be present during practice time to help offer encouragement, guide and help with practice.
-Be positive.
-Stay involved - read their notebook so you know what the weekly expectations are
By being an active member of the Triangle of Success, you are ensuring that your child gets the full advantage of the many benefits that come from piano lessons.