If you're looking for a way to give your child a good hobby, it's time to think about piano lessons. Piano lessons teach children self-discipline and encourage creativity. However, before you get your child started with their piano lessons, you'll need to take steps to enhance their chance for success. Here are four steps you should take when signing your child up for beginner piano lessons.
Wait Until Your Child is Ready
If you want your child to learn how to play the piano, wait until they're ready for the lessons. Starting your child too early can lead to stress, frustration, and fatigue. This is particularly true where preschool-aged children are concerned. Very young children don't have the attention span or the energy required to focus on music lessons. Wait until your child is old enough to sit through a 30-minute-long story without getting bored before you begin piano lessons.
Share Practice Time With Your Child
Once your child begins taking piano lessons, they'll need to practice each day. If your child seems to struggle with their practice time, don't be afraid to take an active role. Sit down at the piano bench and share practice time with your child. Have them teach you what they've been learning. They may be more excited about practice time if they think they're teaching you something at the same time.
Let the Teacher Set the Standards
You may have music that you would like your child to learn how to play. You might even have an idea of how long your child should practice each day. However, it's important that you let your child's piano teacher set the standards, especially where music and practice time are concerned. The piano teacher will be better able to determine what level of music your child is ready for. They'll also know how much time your child should spend practicing each day. Allowing the teacher to lead the way will help reduce the occurrence of frustration and burnout.
Don't Let Your Child Give Up too Soon
Once your child starts taking piano lessons, don't let them give up too soon. Children often think about giving up as soon as they realize that learning to play an instrument requires time and practice. They may also think about giving up when they don't think they're catching on as quickly as they should. Encourage your child to continue with lessons for at least a full year. That way, they have enough time to really get a feel for the piano before they throw in the towel.