Music is one of the most joyful and satisfying factors in life. Learning a musical instrument can be the start of an amazing adventure, filled with joy that opens doors for new friendships and knowledge. Once an instrument is mastered, it serves as a source of self-satisfaction and accomplishment.
One of the best ways to master an instrument is to begin at a young age. However, starting at a young age can be complicated, because for children there’s a visceral joy in hanging out with friends and watching TV shows. Some parents yearn for their kids to learn an instrument. Even though it’s a joyful experience it can be rather difficult at times. Here are a couple of ways to help your kid learn how to play an instrument.
Choose The Right Instrument
The first step in learning to play is the selection of the instrument which is to be played. Choosing the right instrument is of the utmost importance. The best way to know which is the right one is by asking your kid what they might be interested in. The answer may be different from yours, but let the kid choose the instrument he wants.
You may want your child to learn the guitar, but they might have their heart set on a flute, or even become a drummer. When they choose their instrument themselves, they will put their heart and soul into learning it. This will make them stick to it longer. It’ll make practice sessions much easier and more comfortable. They will be less frustrated because they’ll love what they’re playing and they will work much harder. This will also provide the child with a sense of responsibility; if they ever want to give up out of frustration, they won’t because they chose it.
Be Encouraging and Patient
Learning an instrument can be quite frustrating at times. It isn’t something you can learn overnight, and this is why patience and encouragement can help a child get through this tough time. There are so many barriers that children have to face during this process. Make sure that they understand that it’s okay to make mistakes because it’s only natural that they won’t get the hang of things instantly.
Some children pick up quickly while others take time to get the hang of things. Don’t compare your child with other kids because this can be highly demotivating at times. Experts suggest that playing music for children while they’re idle is also of enormous help. So you should surround your child with music. You can also try to expose your child to TV and films that have great musical content.
Practice Regularly
If you wish to teach your kid to play an instrument, practice is key. We all know the saying “practice makes perfect ” right? In order to succeed and excel in the music industry, your child needs to practice their heart out. However, try to avoid long and exhausting practice sessions. If you start with lengthy practice sessions, they might get bored and frustrated and might not enjoy it. Give them a sense of freedom. Brief practice sessions are recommended to ease them into the process of habit and learning with comfort.
Start teaching the basics in a fun way that doesn’t bore them. Make practice joyful and not filled with misery. Motivation plays a crucial role in their practice as well. If a kid is unable to perform, motivate them rather than discourage them. Ensure that practice is fun for them so they don’t take it as a chore. Once they start enjoying it, after that it’s a piece of cake. Make practice a part of your kid’s routine. Consistency will also play an important role because you can’t expect to excel in something without being consistent with it.
We live in times that are dominated by technology. If you have a child, then you’re all too familiar with the challenge of getting them away from their screens at any given time.
Helping your little one learn how to play an instrument may not be as easy as it seems. It requires an enormous deal of research and patience. The best way to go through this process smoothly is by letting the kid choose their instrument. Once they choose the right instrument, set up regular practice sessions because without practice they won’t learn. However, just practice isn’t enough, encourage your child and support them. Motivate them and provide them with a safe and healthy environment for them to grow and excel. There’s always the option of hiring a music teacher as well.
Featured image: Pixabay (Vladvictoria).
