Many parents understand that learning how to play the piano, for a child, is most successfully done when parents are involved, particularly when the child is very young. I am often asked what parents can do get their child ready for piano lessons. Piano lessons can seem like a big undertaking for some! Luckily, this post from the Hoffman Academy highlights some things parents can do to make sure their children get the most out of piano lessons. I highly recommend reading through the article above before your child begins lessons!
Interest goes a very long way in helping kids learn the piano. While your teacher is an important part of that, what you do at home can also help keep your child engaged in the learning process. A few of the best things to do with your child are to listen to music together, sing together and watch videos of piano performances. Many of my students come to their first lesson having never seen anyone play the piano before, even on a screen. While there is no harm in this, having some understanding of the physicality of playing the instrument, even if it’s just googling for youtube videos of piano performances, can help with the learning process.
Setting clear expectations also helps. Have a conversation with your child about what to expect. Establishing a time of day to practice each day creates a routine that builds momentum and facilitates progress. When students don’t practice, they don’t make progress. Students that don’t make progress soon become bored and frustrated and eventually quit. You can use this as an opportunity to help your child build important life-skills by assisting them in managing their time, and creating space in the day (every day) for them to practice.
And lastly, don’t underestimate your role as a parent! Be prepared to sit and help them at the piano. Even if you know nothing about music, positive encouragement, support, and showing them you believe they can do it (especially when piano practice is difficult - and the truth is: it can be at times!) makes all the difference. Create a time and place in your family’s life for learning music. If you feel like you or your child are over-scheduled, but you feel piano is important, find something to set aside. It can be difficult to find 30 minutes a day for piano, but learning piano is a life-long skill that can bring joy for years to come!