Role of the Parent
Found in: Coaches
Colleen H., Michigan
I would like to present a list of the advantages of having a parent present and participating in their child’s shared lesson to the parents of my students. Besides what I have listed, is there anything else I could add to it?
Supportive
Positive Influence
Aware of what is being covered in class and supporting the learning process at home
Sheri R., California
One I heard when I first started is that it makes a powerful unconscious communication to the child that this is something the parent values in their child’s life, that it is a priority.
Some more reasons:
- free piano lessons for parents if they also want to learn piano
- hearing you weaving conversations about LTR (long term relationship) into lessons regularly (that sort of falls under your third one, just more specific to LTR)
- learning how to improvise while their children play Honey Dew, etc.
- singing together in the lessons–great to share that with kids
- the fact that many conversations need to be directed to parents rather than students regarding practicing
By the way, I was a bit wishy-washy my first year, didn’t insist on parental involvement, and that was a big mistake!
Elaine F., South Carolina
It gives the message to student that this is important enough to give it full attention. Opportunity for shared memories and bonding where both are ” beginners” ( often)
Shanta H., Minnesota
Help kids pay attention/monitor behavior in lesson (esp for younger kids)
Guide children through LTR
Also – just a thought. It might be worthwhile to state it a little more affirmatively, like
“I require that parents are present and participate in lessons. Parents are the ‘third leg of the stool’, and thus essential to the lesson and home environment. I want to be clear: I am asking that piano be a family commitment. We all have the best chance of long term success if this is a family commitment. Here are a few of your jobs as the life coach/parent in the lesson:”