Ask the Expert: How Can I Help My Child Make a Habit of Practicing the Piano?

Many children find it dreadful and boring to practice the piano after the lesson is over. The executive director and founder of Music Simply Music on Long Island offers parents tips on how to get their children to make a habit of practicing the piano while enjoying it.

Parents should create a positive and supportive learning environment necessary for their children to focus and get motivated by telling them how much you like the song they are playing and by exposing them to great music. Remeber to always encourage progress. 

Start With a Positive Piano Lesson

Make sure that your child is ready for their lesson before the lesson begins. This means having all their books out and a pencil ready. If your child is taking lessons in your home, make sure that distractions like the TV, video games, or other siblings are not impacting the lesson.

If your child has a friend over or is playing a video game before her lesson, make sure that activity has ended at least 15 minutes before the piano lesson begins so that the lesson is not interuppting the activity which could just cause resentment on your child’s part toward the lesson.

Hold Mock Recitals and Performances

Encourage your child to play for you and your family! Ask them to play their favorite song just for fun. Don’t feel pressure to offer your criticism, but instead, be your child’s cheerleader and let your teacher be the teacher--that’s why you hire a teacher!