Aside from the teacher, the parent or guardian play an important role in shaping a child’s future in music. Here are some tips to make practice time less of a chore and more of a fun activity.

1. Make practice time a daily routine

Sit down with your child and determine when is the best time to practice. It is important that you involve your child in this decision so as not to make him feel that he is forced to do it. In my case I find the perfect time to get my child to sit down and practice is after school, after she has rested and before doing her homework. After practice I give her free time to play before she tackles any homework. I find that she responds better with this set-up. Figure out what works best for your child and map out a daily practice time based on that.

2. Keep it short at first
For young children it is not advisable to make daily practice sessions longer than 15 minutes. Young children simply don’t have the patience to sit down and concentrate on learning a musical instrument for long periods, especially if they’re just beginning. On the other hand, if you see that your child is becoming more interested in learning his instrument, you can lengthen his practice time. But don’t make it too long that he becomes too tired and strained in the end. Remember, take your cue from your child, never force your child.

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3. Show encouragement through words and actions

Words of encouragement can go a long way when it comes to learning how to play a musical instrument. Remember to always encourage your child, take note of the progress he has made and the improvements he’s showing. A smile and a hug means a lot to a child. Make practice time a time to bond with your child.

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4. Make daily practice enjoyable and engaging

Perhaps the most important advise I can give you is to never make practice time a punishment, it will make your child dislike, or even hate, daily practice if you do so. Rather, make practice time enjoyable by showing him your support and enthusiasm. Some parents even have a daily practice chart where the child can put stickers on after every practice session. Be creative and have fun; music is meant to be enjoyed.

5. Create a confortable practice area

Is the seat comfortable? Is there proper lighting? How about ventilation? Make sure that your practice room is comfortable for your child and that there are no distractions so he can concentrate on his pieces. Also, consider adjusting your child’s practice schedule depending on the time of year. For example, during summer when there’s no school and the temperature is hotter, you can schedule his practice in the mornings when it’s cooler. During winter you can set his practice time in the afternoons when it’s warmer.

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6. Talk to your child’s music teacher

If your child is taking private or group lessons, make it a point to talk to his teacher. Ask his teacher what areas your child needs to improve on so that you can implement that during your practice time at home. Don’t forget to do warm-ups first, then practice the piece his teacher assigned and end it with the pieces he already knows and enjoys

1. Playing A Musical Instrument Makes You Smarter
Many studies have been conducted on the effects of music to the brain. Scientists say that children who are exposed to music, or those who play an instrument, do better in school than those who don’t. Recent research suggests exposure to music may benefit a child’s reading age, IQ and the development of certain parts of the brain. Adults can benefit from learning to play an instrument too because it helps the mind to be alert and active eventually helping to sharpen the memory.

2. It Teaches Discipline
Learning to play an instrument is like learning to speak another language and it can be challenging at times. One of the qualities musicians possess is discipline. You have to be disciplined in order to master playing your instrument. You have to set time each day to practice, practice and practice some more.

3. Playing A Musical Instrument Relieves Stress
We all have days when we are so stressed out and we just want to take a break from it all. Have you ever noticed that when you hear soft, soothing music you feel more relaxed? Playing an instrument can do that and more, especially if you’re the one playing. Music is one of life’s simple joys; it helps calm the mind.

4. Sense of Achievement
If you’re a beginner learning to play your first piece, it can be frustrating. But once you’ve mastered it, the satisfaction you’ll feel is priceless. Never mind if it’s just a simple piece, believe me you’ll never forget the first piece you’ve mastered. You are one more step closer to achieving your goal and that is certainly something to be proud of.

5. Playing A Musical Instrument is Fun
Sure it can be a lot of hard work but there is no denying playing an instrument is fun. Once you get better at it, opportunities will arise for you to share your newly learned skill with your family and friends. Who knows, you may also consider playing professionally in the future. Playing a musical instrument opens up a lot of good possibilities that will surely enrich your life.