How to Encourage Your Child to Practice Piano

Practicing piano can feel like a chore, especially for children. The child not only has to give up his play time, he may struggle just to learn the instrument. The best thing a parent can do is set reasonable, regular practice times and try to make the experience fun for the child.

Things You'll Need

• Patience

Instructions

1. Establish a daily routine so the child gets used to practicing piano. Beginning players may need as little as 15 minutes per session, but the sessions should take place at the same time at least once a day. The child will learn to view practice as part of her normal day just like play time or homework. Never force your child to practice; encourage them to do it through negotiations. For example, if she wants to ride a bike, say she can do that after she spends 15 minutes at the piano.

2. Be an active participant in the child's piano education. Spend some time sitting with the child when he practices and praise any improvement you notice.

3. Take the child to see live music, especially piano, performances. Exposure to live music could inspire the child to keep working at her own skills. It also helps build her ear for music.

4. Let your child have a say in the choice of music she will play. While you must stick to lessons, shop around for extra songs she can pick out on her own as a reward for a good practice. A melody from a TV show or some contemporary song might work. This creative control allows a child to feel excited about the music she will be able to play.

5. Let your child play the piano for "fun" so every session is not just a lesson. Some children want to press keys just to hear what they would sound like. This unorganized tinkering can be a lesson in itself. Let your child explore and play with the piano. As long as he is not being destructive, it will not hurt to have a little fun.

References

• Piano Teacher's Federation