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Parents ask this all the time: “What should my child practice?” While the details vary by instrument and teacher, the most effective practice sessions usually include a few key ingredients:
Warm-ups / scales (build technique and control)
A method book exercise or performance piece (steady progress toward goals)
Ear training and/or basic theory (better listening, reading, and understanding)
A fun song (motivation and enjoyment)Think of this as a flexible framework, not a strict checklist.
Structure + Creativity
A simple routine helps students improve faster because they practice with a plan. We encourage students to work with their teacher to create a routine that feels clear and doable. At the same time, don’t let structure kill creativity. If your child starts improvising on the piano, making up a song, or exploring new sounds, let them. Those moments build real musicianship. They can return to the routine afterward, or the next day.
The Most Important Skill: How to Practice
Learning how to practice matters more than how long your child practices. A great rule of thumb is: Practice what you don’t know - everything else is just playing. Many students spend most of their practice time repeating things they already can do. That doesn’t create much improvement, and it’s boring. Progress happens when they focus on the hardest spots, slow things down, and gradually increase the challenge, just like adding weight at the gym.When students practice this way, they improve faster and practice feels more rewarding.
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