Practice may make perfect, but that isn’t always enough motivation for kids to do their piano homework in between lessons. Iryna Dunaeva, the proprietor of European Piano School in Anchorage, AK, a piano teacher with over 40 years of experience, knows how challenging it can be to convince kids to practice every day. Here, she offers her tips for motivating your child to practice the piano.

In between piano lessons, try these tricks:

• Offer a Reward: Establish a visual reward system for practicing the piano. Hang a calendar next to the piano and have your child mark each day with a sticker for every practice session. Arrange a fun activity for after your child accumulates a certain number of stickers. Make sure the goal is obtainable, so your child does not get discouraged. 
• Record Their Progress: Nothing inspires motivation more than seeing and hearing progress. Video recording works best, but you can do audio only. Make a recording of the piece your child currently is working on. Keep recording it every week or two. Your child will recognize the progress they have made and be more inclined to reach a higher level. Kids also love seeing themselves in a video, so it helps boost their confidence and sense of accomplishment.
• Pick a Role Model: Have your kid find a pianist to learn from and admire. In the age of social media and the internet, it is easy to find a role model who will inspire them to practice their craft. However, be careful with YouTube, as everyone can upload their videos and sometimes the quality of performance is poor. Iryna Dunaeva of European Piano School can help your child find the best performers.
• Be Flexible: Strict rules requiring piano lessons can discourage children and make practicing seem like a punishment. Give your child options for when they would like to practice to make them feel empowered and in control of their daily schedule. It doesn’t have to be done all at once—such as practicing shorter sessions twice a day. In fact, some kids prefer to practice before school in the morning.
• Let Them Perform Recitals: Knowing they will perform in front of others will motivate your child to improve through practice. Recitals and concerts give children a special day to anticipate in which they can demonstrate their new-found skills. European Piano School has formal recitals twice a year. In addition, parents can arrange for small, home recitals in a circle of family and friends. It is helpful and motivating for kids when they see other children playing.

Mastering an instrument takes time and practice. Applying the same Russian teaching concepts that shaped some of the world’s greatest pianists, Iryna Dunaeva demonstrates patience and expertise while teaching piano classes.

European Piano School is the prime destination for anyone in the Anchorage community interested in taking professional piano lessons from a renowned piano teacher. Call (907) 360-2915 to schedule lessons for your child today or learn more about the school online. They offer year-round enrollment for private piano lessons.