Wondering how to best provide support and encouragement for your kids’ piano lessons, particularly when it comes to practicing? Here’s some great advice from Augustine, FL piano teacher Heather L…
As a parent of a young pianist, you could be the very element in their music education that projects them to success with self-confidence, the ability to think critically, and a lifelong love of learning. If you were to study the greatest pianists, or even simply the best-educated, hardest-working people in the world, then you’ll likely find they had a supportive parent (or other loved one).
How Often Should Children Practice Piano?
As a piano teacher, a common question I get is: how often should children practice piano? While the answer to this question will vary because every student is different, we’ve got some general guidelines you can follow.
If your child is working with a professional piano teacher, they will actually be able to identify your student’s learning style and their general attitude about practice, and then be able to determine the best practice schedule.
With that said, kids’ piano lessons should generally take place six days per week if possible. How long each daily session is will depend on the child’s age. But, here’s a good guide to follow:
| Child’s Age | Length of Piano Session |
| 3-4 years | 10 minutes |
| 5-6 years | 15 minutes |
| 7-8 years | 20 minutes |
| 9-10 years | 25 minutes |
| 11-14 years | 30 minutes |
Time suggestions should be adjusted accordingly. This may vary depending on your child’s maturity level, ability to focus, etc. Of course, if a performance is coming up, piano classes for kids or lessons may be extended.
Other Tips for Supporting Kids’ Piano Practice
Now that you know more about how often your child should practice piano, here are some other tips for helping your child succeed as a new pianist.
- If your child seems unmotivated or unexcited, shorten their lesson times so they don’t get burnt out. Then, slowly build back up to longer lessons.
- Allow your child to choose piano songs for kids of their choice sometimes to make it more fun for them. Check these easy, fun songs out!
- Look into in-person or online piano lessons for kids to allow them to work with a professional who can create customized lessons to meet your child where they are.
- Praise your kids’ piano skills often.
- Allow your child to take the occasional ‘vacation’ from playing if they need it.
You may also be interested in: How to Teach Piano to Kids: 12 Ways to Support Your Little Mozart
Piano Classes for Kids
While having your kids’ piano sessions at home is important and allows for extra practice, classes with a professional teacher are always extremely beneficial. Booking a piano class for your child can set up a consistent routine for them to practice.
Piano classes for kids also allow you to find someone you trust to work with them. You want to find a reputable teacher who your child enjoys working with, too. Remember if your child doesn’t click with their teacher, it’s always okay to find a better match.
TakeLessons offer private, online piano lessons for kids. Check out teachers here!
Do you have questions about supporting your kids’ piano skills and lessons? Let us know in the comments below!
Heather L. teaches singing, piano, acting, and more in Saint Augustine, FL, as well as through online lessons. She is a graduate of the prestigious Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey, and has performed with the New York and Royal Philharmonics, the New Jersey and Virginia Symphonies, the American Boy Choir, and the internationally renowned opera star Andrea Bocelli. Learn more about Heather here!
Photo by roseannadana
Suzy S.