Threlkeld Academy of Music and Arts

“Practice is Its Own Skill” Learning to play an instrument differs from mastering the art of practice. The former involves instrument-specific skills like creating a particular tone. The latter encompasses prac tice skills, such as consistent practice, adher ence to instructions and perseverance during challenging moments. These practice skills, often overlooked by parents, are of paramount importance. “Practice is its own skill,” emphasizes Christine Goodner in her book Music Practice Makeover. Furthermore, children typically struggle with practice skills because they lack full development of executive functions such as organization, focus, perseverance and self-control. Consequently, parents play a piv otal role in supporting practice routines and resilience in the face of difficulties. Learning to play an instrument is a complicated process and most children need parents to help them navigate this convoluted and often arduous journey. What to tell parents: Practice is a distinct skill that encompasses aspects like scheduling practice, staying committed, starting sessions, understanding what to practice, persisting through challenges, seeking assistance and maintaining focus. Since these skills rely on executive functions that children are still developing, you serve as the necessary scaffold for your child’s progress. This entails helping your child remember to practice and, in some cases, sitting alongside them during practice 30 APRIL/MAY 2025 Engaging Parents for Student Succes sessions, particularly during their early stages. With this type of parental support, your child can make steady progress and develop confi dence with their growing musical skills.