A positive working environment both in the lesson and during home practice is very important to a child’s success

It is essential, if you have not already done so, that you read ‘NURTURED BY LOVE’ by Shinichi Suzuki.

During the Lesson:

Only ONE teacher at a time!

Unless strictly necessary, it is best if you don’t speak to your child during the lesson.  Sometimes your child may do something to irritate or embarrass you. Don’t worry. Teachers have seen it all before. It’s best for the teacher to cope with the child in his or her own way. It is necessary for the child and teacher to form a relationship free from interference. Your teacher is quite capable of setting limits. It is important that the lessons are friendly and enjoyable. If teachers seem to be indulging a child it is for a good reason. It’s not because they can’t be firm.

On the other hand, if a teacher speaks sharply to your child, don’t be alarmed. She’s not really angry. It’s calculated to stop the child from indulging in negative habit patterns, and the friendship for the child doesn’t alter.

Please do let the teacher know if illness or trauma means they need to be especially sensitive to the child on some days.

AFTER THE LESSON

Compliment the child on what he or she did well. For example: ‘I liked the way you listened carefully to everything your teacher said’ or, ‘Wasn’t your bow hold good today! We’re really worked on that, haven’t we? All your hard work has paid off.’

If the child behaved badly it’s counter-productive to make a comment like: ‘You were so naughty.’ ‘What a bad girl.’ ‘I was ashamed of you.’ It’s better to say, ‘I don’t like silliness.’ Attack the behaviour, not the child.

NO LESSON?

If a child is persistently uncooperative, a wise teacher will not get into a power struggle and reward the behaviour with lots of attention and cajoling. Your teacher will likely stop the lesson and send him or her home without the lesson sticker. Don’t worry and don’t scold. Take the child away quickly in a firm, but matter-of-fact manner. No lesson should always equal no attention. Don’t worry if the child is crying. This is a good sign. Explain that you are disappointed but that you are looking forward to next week when you think he will remember that he is there to do his work, to pay attention, etc.

HOME PRACTICE

When you notice something, this is your cue not to say anything. Don't try to immediately 'fix' a problem. Ask yourself "What can I do next that will help the most?". One of the best things you can do is get your child to play review pieces and increase the listening. See if the problem is still there by the end of the week.

LISTEN TO THE CD, LISTEN TO THE CD, LISTEN TO THE CD!

If you are not playing the Suzuki recording every day, you are not setting your child up for success. Listening to the CD is vital.

HOW MUCH PRACTICE?

Dr Suzuki often said, ‘You don’t have to practice every day. Only on the days you eat.’ No parent has ever said to me,

‘We’ve had such a busy week that I just didn’t have time to feed Judy this week. I’m going to feed her double next week to make up for it.’ For the well being of your child, so that he can realise his potential and have a positive self image, please don’t embark on this if you are not fully committed.

Dr Suzuki also said, ‘Never rush. Never rest.’ Daily practice is what generates ability. Ability generates enthusiasm for the lesson and for practice. This is the cycle that moves you forward. If it is broken, momentum is lost. How much practice you should be doing depends on age and level. Ask your teacher.