How To Get Them To Practice

HOW TO GET THEM TO PRACTICE!

For some parents, solving this problem is like solving the mysteries of the universe.  We hope at least you’ll find some of these tips useful.  Please let us know if they work for you or if you have discovered other tips you would like to share with others.  I'll send a few tips each month.

1. REWARD.  I found the biggest motivation for students to practice was kind of reward for completing consistent practice.  Charting their practice (marking a chart with stars for each day of practice or creating some visual that charts their progress) allows the student to see how close they are to a specific goal.  Once the goal is reached, the student is rewarded with some prize they find interesting. i.e. after a week the student receives a small prize (this can be anything and doesn't have to cost money- like more video game time or freedom from a chore for a day etc.) but after one month of consistent practice, they receive a prize of greater value to the student.
2. CONSISTENCY.  Even a few minutes each day of practice is better than a cram session of a few hours in one day.  Unlike studying for a test, it takes time to develop the fine motor skills needed to play your instrument well.  If it's possible, try leaving your instrument out of it's case (guitar, violin etc) and on a stand so it's easily picked up and played- if even for a few minutes.  Consistent practice over the week will reap HUGE gains!
3. PRIORITIZE.  Just like many of you prioritize your student's sports practices, don't let their practicing for their instrument be last on the list.  If the students see that you value their lessons and want them to get the most out of them then they will too!
4. INSPIRE.  Bring your student to see advanced students or professionals perform on their same instrument.  I can't tell you how many times I've seen the excitment in a student's eyes when they watch an excellent performer especially when it's live and in person.  Sometimes that inspiration impacts a person for a lifetime!

If you've got some practice tips or stories or questions- I'd love to hear about them. share in the form below!