Claiming Territory
Having difficult conversations
I’m having trouble with a boy aged 7 years who hasn’t been following the rules (mum isn’t helping as she always asks his permission for everything!). Today I told him I wanted to help him but I couldn’t if he wouldn’t listen to me and…
Parents trying to manipulate policy
Has anyone had any issues with parents of students trying to manipulate policy? My policy clearly states that I do not do makeup lessons or refunds unless in the event of inclement weather, and I just had all of my students and life coaches sign…
Webinar Series: 05/25/2017 – Piano – Request as Distinct from Requirement
In this webinar Neil clarifies the difference between requests and requirements and discusses the crucial role these play in your studios. Topics include: Distinction Between Request & Requirement (00:09) Consequences for Students (09:39) Students Progressing Slowly (18:27) Teachers Wanting to be Liked (21:19) Addressing Issues…
Getting back on track with requirement-based studio
Anyone have proven tips that work to get back on track when requirement-based has lapsed a bit? I have a few suggestions. With holidays and year-end coming up, you might make a plan and institute it at the beginning of 2017 as a fresh start.…
Holding students accountable in a requirement-based studio
Having a requirement-based studio has been on my mind lately, because I know there’s room for improvement, but I’m not sure how. On some issues I’m still not sure what “requirement-based” looks like. I think I’m still too understanding about some things. To me, it…
Parent correcting child in lessons
I have a student who is coming to a shared lesson with two parent coaches (mom and step-dad). With three students and four parents, my space is quite crowded. How would you suggest I respond? Ask just one to attend, ask one to sit farther…
Handling siblings during lessons
I have a parent who requested not attending the lesson with her 6th grade boy (who has been with me for 2 years) and I sent her a reply to explain why I needed parents to attend lessons. She also said the little sister of…
Playlist management
The biggest struggle I have with my students is the playlist. Most of them are not interested in using it, forget, or just don’t do it despite my best efforts. Keeping their songs instantly playable is an ongoing problem and uses more lesson time than…
Teacher frustration
Frustrated with students! Not using their playlist, forgetting their songs, sulking if something looks too hard before giving it a go. Still using the toilet even when I send a message to the parent an hour before every lesson to say please go to the…
Filming lessons for absent students – Neil Moore
Hi everyone. I just wanted to address something and make sure that this is clear. It was brought to my attention today that there are at least a few teachers who, from time to time, are filming their lessons and making a video available to…