Menu

Children / Teens

How do I know when my child is ready to start?

A child should demonstrate the physical, mental and emotional readiness for a positive, successful and fun (!) experience at the piano.

It is also important for the parent / guardian to provide the time, space, resources and encouragement for a budding musician to learn, grow and develop.

Ask the following questions to assess their readiness as well as yours:

Column

Student Readiness

Have they been asking for lessons? For how long? And why?
Do they move or dance in rhythm to music that catches their interest?
Have teachers at school commented on their interest in music?

For younger children:

Do they like to experiment or play on the piano at home?
Or, if there is no piano at home, pretend to play on tables or other furniture?
Can they say the alphabet and count to 20?
Do they know which side is left versus right?
Can they sit still and concentrate for 10 minutes at a time?
Can they use scissors? Color without going outside the lines?

Column

Parent Readiness

Will I ensure there is quiet time at home for practising?
Will I ensure there is a supportive, positive atmosphere at home?
Will I stave off negative remarks about learning piano or making mistakes at the piano?
Will I provide positive encouragement (rather than negative comments) when they play and practise?
Will I commit to the ongoing costs of time and tuition?
Will I purchase an instrument if we don't already have one?

For younger children:

Will I sit with them for 20 to 30 minutes daily to help with practice (or at least keep them company) and cheer them on when they play?
Will I play musical games and encourage others in the family to join us?