subject: How to Determine My Child's Readiness to Learn Music? [print this page] When should the mother enroll their child in a formal music lesson? The answer is that it depends on the child's readiness to learn. The child has to have the interest and is mentally and physically capable and ready. Some music teachers suggest enrolling the child when she reaches the age of 8. Others say 5 rather than 3, for in this age, the child has developed the control of the hand movements. Some mothers start enrolling their child when they are able to read letters and recognize numbers. As a parent, you should know whether your child could endure a half hour of lesson or not. Another important idea is that the child has to overcome the separation anxiety stage before starting because this could affect the cooperation and attentiveness of the child in the learning process. Children grow and learn at different rates, so what is right for one might be disadvantageous to another. Mothers could determine when should their child be enrolled in a formal lesson based on their observations. They need to be sensitive enough in order for them to know the perfect time.
Interest will serve as the motivation for your child to start and as she goes through the progression of learning. A mother could start developing the interest of the child while she is still pregnant. It is scientifically proven that the child can hear even she is still in the womb of the mother and that the child could develop a taste on music later on. Sing and dance with your child your favorite songs and music. These can create to your child happy memories. Influence you child with your interest in music. Teach her with action songs or you could bring her to music concerts and orchestra. In these ways you are introducing to her the different rhythms, types and concepts of music.
Everyone has his own talents and gifts but these needs to be nurtured and developed. Parents have to take part in harnessing the talents of their youngsters. As a parent, you have to support your child and try not to fail to praise them every time they do well on their performance. Give them the opportunity to play in some occasions such as family gatherings.
Never put too much pressure on the child. They may lose their interest and could also cause stress to them. Children could learn easier and faster when you make the lesson more enjoyable. They will be more cooperative and you are letting them learn in their own creative way. Good and expert tutor is another significant factor that could affect in maintaining the interest of the child in learning to play an instrument. He must know how to create a fun but productive learning sessions.
How to Determine My Child's Readiness to Learn Music?