Tip #11

The first question that students and parents ask is how often and how long they should practice.

There are several determining aspects to answer this question:

• How old is the student?
• How long has the student been playing/singing?
• What are the near/far future aspirations/goals for the student?

We recommend daily practice!

Young beginner students can start with as short as 5 minutes a day. Although it would be helpful for any beginner student, especially for young beginner students, it is important that a parent is present during these practice times (TIP #3). As their focus increases and their pieces get more involved, they will see the need to increase the practice time.

Minimum practice time suggestions per age per day:

4-6 year old students: 5-10 minutes

6-8: 15-20 minutes

9-12: 30-40 minutes

12 and up: 40-60 minutes

Some additional notes while determining a practice length:

• Give your child two numbers to choose from for their practice time (ex. 15 or 20 - in the upcoming weeks we will talk about the importance of providing children choices to make them feel autonomous)
• Allow time for the previously determined practice structure (TIP #10) and daily plan (we will explore how to create daily, weekly, monthly practice plans/goals in the upcoming weeks)
• Make time to end the practice with something fun (‘me time’ TIP#10, playing a favorite song, playing a short concert for parents, giving a music lesson to a toy etc.)
• Remember that no matter the length of the practice time, frequency is always more productive than the length of time that is spent each practice.
• Observe your child’s focus during a practice to see if she/he will be able to handle an increased practice time or the time needs to be decreased to lower frustration.
• Determine the amount of times to play a song(s) rather than minutes for younger students.
• Prepare students for an increase in the practice time beforehand.
• Increase practice time while getting ready for an audition or competition.
• Stick to the time previously determined to build self-discipline.
• Commit to practicing even if it is not the suggested minimum time.

Next week, we will focus on prioritizing and staying with our commitments.

May you know you are making a difference, even if your child never tells you themselves.

We would be more than happy to answer any questions and provide more specific consultancy if needed.

Thank you for being a part of the PianoAlpharetta community!