Friday, August 31, 2018 by Averil Spence-Clarke | Education

It is highly probable that 99.999% of the entire population of children hates to practice. It is also the most common complaint of parents who worry why their kids refuse to leave their friends and IPads behind for a couple of hours with scales, metronome counting and Beethoven. After all, who really prefers work over fun? It’s not just coincidence that those two words are hardly ever synonymous.  There are many reasons why kids detest practicing. Some resist more than others, but few ever elect to practice of their own free will. Here are a few of the reasons: It’s too boring; It’s not challenging enough; It’s too hard; Parents push too hard; They simply don’t want to do it, it’s like homework –meaning work!!.

The real question becomes, “As parents, how do we encourage them?”

If the teacher is not aware of the problem and has not made any suggestions, ask for help. Perhaps they can incorporate new items and methods into the lesson to help engage the student. Sometimes attending a concert(s) where the student can see the application of what they are learning will provide encouragement. It is important to be patient, persistent and adaptable as your child grows and learns. Remember how we once responded to homework, practice, tests and lessons as a child .I know I fell into some of these categories. Practicing is important, but it can also be a very slippery slope on the path to musical growth. Keep the lines of communication open with the teacher and dialogue as frequently as needed. 

1. Make practice time a daily routine. Sit down with your child and determine the best time to practice. It is important that you involve your child in the decision so as to not make them feel that they are being forced into this mode.  
2. Keep practice sessions short and age appropriate It is not advisable for young children to have daily practice sessions longer than 10-15 minutes. They simply do not have the patience or discipline to concentrate on learning for long periods especially if they are just beginning. As they become used to practicing, slowly increase time especially for older children to approximately 30 - 45 minutes per day.
3. Encourage your child through words and actions .Words of encouragement can go a long way. A smile and a hug mean a lot to a child. Praise all gains made and especially non-combatant practice sessions. Practice time is a great time to bond.
4. Practice time should be enjoyable and not a punishment. It will only make your child hate the practice sessions. Creative ideas such as practice charts where the child can track their progress using stickers, rewards for a job well done etc. makes for more relaxed practice. Music is meant to be enjoyed. Be creative and have fun with practicing.
5. Make the practice area comfortable. Is there proper lighting?  Is the seat comfortable?  Ensure that there are no distractions so that your child can concentrate on their musical pieces.
6. Try to incorporate movement, clapping, marching to rhythms etc. to help release tension and keep the child engaged.

 Happy practicing as you move forward!!