Suzuki Music Practice - Making it Happy

So you're a Suzuki parent. You understand that music making is more, much more than following the Suzuki method. It is a philosopy, a way of life.

It's all about Nurturing by love.

Not just in making Suzuki music but in making the hearts of your kids sing while learning anything!

Because if music making is to be effective it needs to come from the heart.
So now, let me guess... you holler, "It's time to come in and do your practice!"

And your kids come bounding in instantly, eager to get going?

Yeah, right!!

Mmmmm. It doesn't happen at your house?

Well, it can. It just takes a little creative energy and some new ideas to try and you'll all be off to a new start!

So let's go for the first Spark to get that happy fire going. And a bright one too!

No. 1 You be the Enthusiastic Encourager.

Remember when your kids took their first steps? They wobbled and fell. But didn't you yell, "Wheeeee! That's terrrrrrrific! Go on, hop up! You can do it! ?"

Why not be just as encouraging when they're developing ability to speak the language of music on whatever instrument has been chosen for them

No. 2 Give Rewards.

Learning anything is an effort for anyone, and kids don't
see the reward at the end of the road.
So why not do for them what we'd happily do for a puppy?
Give them a reward at the end of every practice.
What kid won't come cheerfully to find what their next reward'll be?

Young kids love stickers, but even older ones will practice cheerfully when they
know that: 5 stickers turns into a swim,
or 10 stickers means a bike ride
or 2 stickers means a yummy treat.
Or whatever you know is a treat for your Susie or Johnny!
Rewards along the road will ensure they don't stall, but keep moving.

No. 3 Make a Daily Practice Chart.

List every piece that is to be practiced. Include a fun motivational quote at the top.
At the beginning of the week talk over the goals for the new music. Include the number of times each section is to be played.

You may have a copy of what we use. Here it is: Happy Practice Chart

No. 4 Use a Timer

Only set it for 15 minutes. Most kids can get their heads around the thought that they can manage 15 minutes. Let them know that when the timer beeps, it's time to stop. They're not allowed a second over!

They'll play cheerfully while anticipating the glorious moment when they can STOP.

So they need to play for an hour a day to accomplish their goals? No problem. Anyone can do anything for just 15 minutes at a time!

Especially when it's really play.

Your attitude, your encouragement, your thrill as they accomplish their first steps, their toddling steps then their confident walking and running, holds the key.

You can be an Enthusiastic Encourager too.