Seven Ways for You to Motivate Your Child to Practice

I remember well the initial excitement of learning to play an instrument. Then reality hit and all of a sudden I was inside practicing while my friends were outside. I soon lost motivation. I was 10 years old at the time. It's a good thing my Dad was a wise man. He had ways of motivating me at a young age, without which I would not have pursued my musical instrument. I would like to share six of Dad's techniques.

1. He was always proud of me no matter how bad it must have sounded to others. It's very important to be supportive and withhold criticism as your child is getting started.

2. He loved to listen to me practice. There is nothing worse than placing your child in a room by themselves and forcing them to practice. I remember a lot of my motivation came from being able to play Dad's favorite songs, and see the pleased expression on his face.

3. I had a regular practice time every day. I knew that 4 PM was my time with Dad where he would listen to me practice. I urge you to establish a regular time and place with your child.

4. He had me play for others at every opportunity. Anytime the Aunts and Uncles or Grandparents came over, He would have me play. I don't know how much they enjoyed it, but it certainly bolstered my confidence. Make every opportunity to stage an impromptu concert.

5. He sat in on every lesson. He wanted to see what I was learning so that he knew what I was responsible for and could help if I had questions at home. A lot of parents these days seem to drop their children off at lessons while they go take care of errands. When Dad showed interest it helped me to be interested.

6. He built in rewards. I knew that if I had a good lesson, we would stop at the ice cream place afterwards, just him and I. I treasure those memories even today.

7. He took me to concerts to hear other good players. It is important to plant in your child's mind the idea that they can be equally as great if they are willing to work at it.

These were Dad’s methods. There are probably other ways to motivate your child, but these methods have taken me from a ten year old who could barely play to the level of professionalism I have today. That was 40 years ago. Thanks Dad! I could not have done it without your help.