COVID-19 took us all by surprise! It has turned our world upside down! Our normal lives, priorities and routines have been shifted in many ways.
As a parent of two, I also see how our little ones are trying to adjust to the new dynamic this virus has forced us to live.
Developing good routines during these times can help our children thrive, and navigate the changes with self-confidence. A good routine can help them stay motivated and productive, while warding off any negative emotional impacts of the quarantine on their lives.
I know that there are many resources available to us as parents during these times, and I want to remind you of one powerful tool you already have at home: music!
Music in times like these can be an oasis or refuge for your children. It has the power to positively affect our children’s brain and emotions, in addition to many other physical benefits. Numerous studies support the countless benefits playing music has on children’s development and well-being.
This is one of the reasons why we at MYC continue to work hard every week so that our students have excellent virtual content available that allows them to continue their development.
You are not alone! Here are some tips we want to share, with the hope they will help to create musical routines during these challenging times.
Build/cultivate a relationship with your child's teacher: We have an amazing staff with big hearts, who genuinely care and love your child. When it comes to building a good relationship with the teacher consider these: First, review the online content that is sent on Monday of each week. Second, let us know, even if it is with an emoji, that you received the text. Third, contact the teacher if there is anything you do not understand about the content, or if you have any questions. Finally, cultivate a good communication with the teacher.
On the same Monday, make a musical plan with your child for the week: Even though you may not have much knowledge of classical music, you can support your child by staying engaged with their musical development. By working on a plan with your children, you demonstrate that you value their world and the stage they are in right now.
Assign a specific space and time to practice: this is something that works well when implementing a new habit or routine. It is important for your child to know that each day, at a specific time, and in a specific space, they will engage with their instrument. A silly strategy that can work to have your child say out loud each day: “Today I’m going to take 30 minutes to practice (name the instrument ) at (specific time), in the (place where they will practice). When we say things out loud we are giving our brain strong cues that most likely end in actions.
Stack the habit of practice to another habit your child already has: We understand that your child's routine and dynamics have changed dramatically. Previously, your child was scheduled to come to MYCincinnati after 7-8 hours of school, and we had several structures in place for our students. But all these dynamics and structures have changed.
One strategy that can facilitate new habits is to have your child say, "Okay, after breakfast (old habit), I'm going to practice for 30 minutes” (new habit). With this action your child is getting the mental support to create a new habit with the help of an existing one. This is just an example. You could use another habit, such as, "Before I watch my favorite show (old habit), I am going to practice 30 minutes" (new habit), etc.
Acknowledge and recognize your child's effort: At MYCincinnati, It is of utmost importance that our students not only hear from us about our expectations for them, but that we also recognize their efforts. They need to know how proud we are of them for trying their best. This helps them strengthen their identity and self-esteem, as well as develop a “yes I can” mindset. At MYCincinnati, trying your best is more valuable than getting specific results. Similarly, at home we can praise and reward our children for making their best effort each day to stick to their routines and build healthy habits.
Every family is different and I’m sure every family has its own way to overcome challenges. By knowing many of you and getting to know your story, I’m certain that some of you have come up victorious from bigger challenges than COVID-19.
Our hope is that these tips will add some tools to your toolbox.
Please feel free to share what has worked for you. We will be more than glad to share it with other families!
Much love,
-Jair-