Friday’s parent/student dinner discussion

Melody [Ward, the facilitator] framed the discussion by asking students what they would like their parents to do to support them. Many wonderful suggestions and ideas were presented, but the most frequently recurring wish was for parents to pay attention (listen, provide encouragement, keep track of lessons and progress). Can this be? Adolescents explicitly asking their parents to notice them, to sit with them and express pride in their accomplishment! What an opportunity to open communication and build a relationship.

The following is an excerpted list of ideas and comments generated by students and parents.

What parents can do:
1. Show genuine interest in your child’s work; ask questions (what part is difficult? what did you like best about your lesson?)
2. Listen when they practice (provide companionship and interest, not criticism)
3. Attend a lesson whenever you can
4. Notice progress–and let them know; show your pride in your child’s accomplishment
5. Give encouragement (even a "push") to get through inevitable rough spots
6. Be honest–give constructive, not "fake" comments
7. Tolerate experimentation and free play
8. Provide a quiet space for practice (turn off TV, etc.)
9. Help with scheduling a suitable time for practice, and respect it
10. Provide rewards for regular practice (stickers, money, appreciation)
11. Make sure student has the right equipment–it’s available on loan from CMW
12. Model the behavior you expect from your student–play an instrument!
13. Ask teacher for suggestions about how/what student should practice
14. Play music at home
15. Attend concerts

-Jacque Russom, CMW board, parents committee