How to Motivate Your Child to Practice

adelaidemusicllc
Aug 6
4 min read

Even when they don't feel like it!

*Finding the motivation to practice can be a real challenge for students!*

Let’s face it—there are some weeks when practice feels like a chore, even for the most dedicated students. As a private music teacher, I’ve seen how quickly a student’s enthusiasm can fade when practice becomes repetitive or pressure-filled.

But I’ve also seen the spark that returns when we approach things differently—when we give students the tools and environment they need to stay inspired. Sometimes, all it takes is a creative burst to breathe fresh life into their playing.

Here are some of my favorite tips (plus ideas from other music educators!) to help your child stay motivated and actually enjoy their practice time.

1. Spark Their Creativity With a “Just Because” Piece

When students choose a piece just for fun, motivation naturally follows. Whether it’s a pop song they love, a duet with a sibling, or a dramatic movie theme, these little “side projects” can remind them why they love music in the first place.

Pro tip: Ask your teacher if your child can learn a “fun” piece alongside their structured curriculum—especially in the summer or between exam periods.

2. Positive Reinforcement Works Wonders

Music educator Ashley Wilson suggests that parents can make a huge impact with simple positive reinforcement. This doesn’t have to be over the top—just commenting on how expressive a piece sounded, or how focused they looked while playing, can go a long way.

Emma Blair adds that children often respond better when we acknowledge effort, not just results. Try phrases like:

“I noticed how patient you were with that tricky part—great work!”
“Wow, that sounded so smooth today! You’ve been working hard.”

3. Try a Practice “Tip Jar”

One fun idea came from a friend who had a practice tip jar growing up. Every time he completed a quality practice session, his parents added a couple bucks to the jar. Over time, this small incentive added up and he was able to spend it on other fun things! Definitely motivating.

If cash isn’t your thing, consider alternatives:

A sticker chart for younger students
Earning points toward a prize or privilege
Planning a mini recital for grandparents or friends as a goal

4. Habit Stacking

Instead of cramming practice into one long block, try linking it to daily routines:

15 minutes before breakfast

15 minutes before lunch

15 minutes before dinner

These smaller chunks feel doable and help build long-term consistency.

5. Special Practice Environments

(via K&M Music School)

Let your child practice with fairy lights, wear cozy pajamas, or if they're a cello student... move to a different room for the day. Novelty can help reduce resistance and brings back the magic of music. Change it up once in a while. ;)

4. Use Inspiring Practice Charts and Games

We’ve created a few free printable practice charts here at Adelaide Music LLC to help students stay on track and feel that sense of progress. Sometimes, just checking off a box or completing a challenge gives kids the momentum to keep going.

5. Make Practice Feel Like Play (for Piano and Cello Students!)

Whether your child is a budding pianist or a curious young cellist, one thing is true: when music feels joyful and empowering, they want to practice.

🎹 Piano students can:

Compose their own mini-pieces (we’ll even notate them!)
Explore pop music, video game themes, or film scores
Create “practice performances” for pets or family members

🎻 Cello students can:

Pretend they’re playing in a movie soundtrack (cello is perfect for drama!)
Learn rich, emotional melodies that connect to how they feel
Try out looping apps or background tracks for a cool solo experience
Even compose or improvise their own short cello “stories”

At Adelaide Music, we believe students thrive when their learning is personal, playful, and just the right amount of challenging. And we back it up with creative reinforcements that make consistent practice feel like a win.

Thoughtful Negative Reinforcements

If creativity and positive reinforcement doesn't seem to work, sometimes consistency needs structure. These gentle boundaries help set expectations without becoming a power struggle.

1. Screentime Limits

No games or shows until practice is complete. Simple, clear, and effective—especially when paired with praise like, “Thanks for taking responsibility today!”

2. Non-Negotiable Time Slot

Treat practice like brushing teeth—same time, every day. Removing the daily “should we practice?” debate reduces resistance and builds a solid routine.

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Whether your child plays piano, cello, or both, motivation flourishes when practice is engaging, rewarding, and supported both at home and in the studio.

Looking for more creative ways to encourage your child? Be sure to check out our free Practice Charts, explore our piano and cello programs, or reach out—we’d love to help your child fall (or stay) in love with music!

For even more creative ideas, check out these fantastic blog posts by fellow music educators:

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