Tuesday, March 19, 2019

Getting the most out of lessons

The most dreaded words we teachers hear from parents:

"Can we have a make up?"

or

"How do we make up group class when we miss for our vacation?"


No matter how many times the teacher's policy is explained or outlined, parents will still ask.

I understand.  I really do.  You don't want to miss a lesson with your teacher.  It's a special time for your child to connect with an adult who is an expert in working with young musicians.  The time with your teacher is often easier than home practices, and your child often makes more leaps in the lessons than it seems like you get through daily repetitive practice at home.  (But don't be fooled!  The daily repetition is absolutely key to making those leaps!!!)

 And of course, you don't want to lose the money if you can't get a make up.

But this post isn't about why make up lessons are unfair to your teacher.  
For more on that, please read this important article by an economist and Suzuki parent:
http://ottawasuzukistrings.ca/makeuplessons/


This post is about getting your money's worth out of lessons.
I'm here to tell you that missing a lesson and not getting a make up is not the main way that you're not getting your money's worth out of your lessons.  


The biggest way that you're not making the most of your lessons is by 
NOT FOLLOWING THROUGH AT HOME.  

Practicing daily, listening daily, and following your teacher's instructions exactly 
are the best ways to get the most out of your lessons.


Taking responsibility to be the home teacher and establishing a regular, daily practice routine is the absolute most important way to get the most out of lessons.  

Would you sign up for a personal trainer at the gym and see them once a week but never work out in between sessions with them?  You wouldn't expect results if you did that.  You wouldn't blame the trainer for your lack of progress!

Would you sign up for Weight Watchers and go to the meetings but never change what you're eating and still expect to lose weight?

And do not worry if your young child to does not want to practice every day.  Does your child want to do their homework every day?  Do you give him/her a choice about doing it?
Does your child want to brush their teeth every day?  Do they have a choice about that?

Establish a routine and stick to it!  Use whatever reward systems you like and that work for you and your child.  Make practice time more fun and bearable by reading up on ways
 to improve your skills as the home teacher.

Here is a fantastic resource:  https://www.sharmusic.com/Accessories/Books-DVDs/Helping-Parents-Practice-by-Edmund-Sprunger.axd



Wishing you much dedication and 
"stick-to-it-tiveness" as you 
embark on your practicing journey!