There is a discussion group every class period Tuesday – Saturday.
Drop by and participate in a conversation with a Suzuki teacher.
We offer the following topics on a rotating basis. See ‘The Daily Note’ for time and location.
“Enjoying the teenage years!”
A survival guide for parents of pre-teen and teen musicians
We will talk about the following challenges and questions:
- Shifting responsibilities from parent to student
- Time management skills
- Peer groups and the benefits of a musical community
- Adolescent insecurities and stage fright
- Should parents still come to lessons?
- Janey wants to practice “on her own”. Is this okay?
“Beat the Practice Blues!”
You can do it! Let the experts show you how.
- Tips for staying on task
- Motivation that lasts
- The pros/cons of charts, games and incentives
- Ideas for folks who have run out of ideas
- Organizing practice time to maximize learning
- Keeping it fun!
- How to quell tantrums before they even begin
“The Journey Begins. . .”
What every parent needs to know about their 2-6 year old musician.
Discussions will cover, but are not limited to, the following:
- Creating a rich musical environment
- Joyful practicing
- Age-appropriate learning
- How to improve your child’s attention span
- Ensuring positive recital/performance experiences
- Coordination and growing bodies
- Getting the most out of the Suzuki Institute experience
“Parent-Teacher Power!”
A successful Suzuki experience depends on a strong parent-teacher partnership.
This session will discuss topics including:
- Effective communication techniques
- Parent-teacher disagreements
. . .and answer questions like:
- What is the Suzuki Triangle?
- When is it time to move on?
- Who is responsible for what?
“I want to QUIT!”
Has your child ever uttered this phrase? If so, this discussion is for YOU!
Conversations will explore:
- The pros and cons of ending lessons
- The “whys” behind wanting to quit. (It’s not cool, I want more free time, it’s too difficult)
- Does she really mean it?
- When should I mention this to our teacher?
- I don’t want to force him, but I also don’t want him to regret quitting.
- What do I do?
- Is it ever okay to quit? If so, when?
“The Competition Factor; Healthy or Hurtful?”
The effects of competition on your child.
Dialogue may include:
- The pros/cons of entering music competitions
- Sibling rivalry
- How student-to-student comparisons affect children
- Embracing a slower pace in a fast-paced world
- Your words and how they create lasting impressions
- “My child enjoys a little competition. Moving on to the next book or group class is a real incentive! Is there anything wrong with that?”