We know that every student comes with unique challenges for staying motivated with lessons. Here are a few tips we’ve collected if your student is struggling!
Children
Common challenges:
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Shorter attention spans
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Some students pushed into lessons by parents
Try the following to keep kids engaged:
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Keep it fun!
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Turn a lesson into a game (Additional Resources: 5 Games That Make Science Fun, 5 Games That Make Spelling Fun, 5 Games That Make Math Fun, 5 Strategies to Make Learning Fun, 5 Great Music Games for Kids)
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Offer small rewards like stickers
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Communicate with parents often and openly (Additional Resources: Music Lessons for Kids: How Involved Should Parents Be)
Teens
Common challenges:
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Not always self-disciplined, parents may not be involved in practice
Try some of the following to keep teens engaged:
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Find out what their interests are before the first lesson and make an effort to connect with them
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Discuss goals together and show them that you’re on board
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Don’t be afraid to hold students accountable for practicing - it’s because you care about their progress
Adults
Common challenges:
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Frustration that comes with learning a new skill
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Fear that their age will deter their success
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Nerves
Try some of the following to keep adults engaged:
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Lighten the mood to make them feel comfortable
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Make your lessons a safe place to let go of their inhibitions
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Don’t make assumptions about what they know and do not know
Additional Resources: How Learning Styles Translate to Music Lessons