1. Eliminate the distractions
Kids get bored easily. They often move on from one shiny thing to the next. Because of this, it is important that you set a special place for your kids to play the piano without any distractions. Take away their tablet, laptop, and even their smartphone during piano playing time.
2. Keep it short
Instead of scheduling one thirty minute piano session every day, consider breaking it down. Try scheduling two fifteen minute piano sessions with one in the morning and one in the evening. Keeping it short will make the piano session less stressful and more fun. When you work on something for longer periods of time, it becomes more of a chore.
3. Use a timer
Kids tend to think concretely. Simply telling them that they need to practice for fifteen minutes can seem interminable to them. Setting a timer for fifteen minutes allows them to see how much time they have left. Also, it puts them in control of the lessons, resulting in less stress.
4. Keep it simple
Teach your kids one new thing per session. Don’t overwhelm them by having them memorize an entire song in one fifteen minute session. You will only create a stressful piano lesson. Instead, when you are teaching your kids something new, break it down into small, simple parts.
5. Make it routine
Schedule your kids’ piano lessons at the same time every day. If your kids eat breakfast at the same time every day, you have established a routine. Do the same with piano lessons. Establishing a routine creates a habit and habits are for the long haul.
6. Don’t get mad
Don’t get frustrated with your kids. Kids tend to imitate what they see. Remember to always encourage your kids. Encouragement can go a long way in creating well-adjusted, happy kids.
7. It’s play not practice
Sometimes changing the wording can go a long way. Don’t tell your kids to practice the piano. Instead, tell them to play the piano. Saying play instead of practice automatically makes it more fun. Making piano lessons more fun means that your kids will want to play, will learn faster, and will be generally happier.
8. Get Involved
Playing the piano does not have to be a kids’ activity. You can learn to play the piano too. Make a game out of it. Play the piano together with your kids. Playing with your kids means more bonding time. Plus, you get to learn a new skill. What could be better?
9. Use bribes
If all else fails, bribe, bribe, and bribe your kids. Tell your kids that you will get them a ice cream cone for fifteen minutes of playing the piano. Or, tell your kids you will take them to the zoo in exchange. Just remember to keep your promises!
10. Have fun
This is perhaps the most important tip of all. Learning how to play the piano should always be fun. If something feels like a chore, then your kids will be more likely to procrastinate and not practice. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your kids, and get to playing!