Tips for Balancing Schoolwork and Music Lessons for Busy Families

As a parent, you want your child to have a well-rounded education and opportunities to pursue their interests and passions. For many students, participating in the band or orchestra plays an important role in their lives. That means, in addition to school performances and practicing at home, they also take private music lessons. For busy families, this can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you manage schoolwork and music lessons effectively.

Make a Schedule That Includes Time for Both Schoolwork and Music Lessons

It’s important to consider your child’s passion for music and see it as a valuable part of their education. Make a schedule for the week ahead, and prioritize what needs to be done first. Encourage your young musician to prioritize their schoolwork and make sure that their homework is completed before they start practicing music. This will help them stay focused and avoid distractions. Also, remember to schedule regular breaks! Taking short breaks during their practice or study sessions can help your child maintain focus and avoid burnout.

Teach Your Musician Time Management Techniques

Extracurricular activities help children learn important management skills. Balancing schoolwork with private music lessons helps children learn to teach your students time management, prioritize tasks and set achievable goals. Learning these techniques early will help establish good habits. Remember, the goal is to help your child find a balance that works for them. By utilizing time management techniques, you can help your child succeed.

Set Realistic Goals and Reward Positive Behavior

Work with your child to set achievable goals for their music lessons and practice. Work with them to determine what is reasonable, considering the amount of time they have available and the amount of work they have in school. This can help them stay motivated and focused, even during busy times. Setting realistic goals can also help prevent frustration and burnout. It’s also important to reward your musician when they hit a milestone or achieve a goal. Getting an A on a history exam and learning a new song deserves some positive recognition!

Get Organized

Encourage your child to keep a schedule and planner, and help them organize their materials and supplies. This can help them stay on top of their responsibilities and avoid getting overwhelmed. Be sure to designate study time each day, and make sure they stick to it. This can help them stay on top of their schoolwork and avoid last-minute cramming.

Seek Support from Your Child’s Music Teacher

If your child is taking private music lessons, get to know their instructor and seek help when you need it. Music teachers can be an excellent resource for tips and advice on how to balance schoolwork and music lessons. Consider reaching out to them for guidance and support.

Be flexible and supportive

When schedules get hectic, be flexible and supportive. If your child needs to miss a lesson or a rehearsal, work with the teacher to reschedule. If they need to adjust their practice routine, be understanding and help them find a solution that works best for them.

Balancing schoolwork and music lessons can be a challenge, but it is achievable with proper planning and support. By working together, families can help their children find success in both their academic and musical pursuits. Talk to your child’s music teacher about other practice habits that can help your young musician achieve success in both their musical and academic pursuits.

Music Lessons are an Investment in Your Child’s Education

Skills gained by learning to play an instrument have a positive effect on school performance and lasts well into adulthood. Meyer Music offers lessons at each of their three locations, KC North, Overland Park and Blue Springs. Our vetted, qualified instructors work with students of all ability, from beginner to advanced.

Private Music Lessons are Available for These Instruments:

• Piano
• Clarinet
• Bass Clarinet
• Alto Sax
• Bassoon
• Violin
• Bari Sax
• Tenor Sax
• Trombone
• Baritone
• Trumpet
• Viola
• French Horn
• Percussion
• Electric Guitar
• Bass Guitar
• Tuba
• Cello
• Acoustic Guitar
• Flute
• Piccolo
• Oboe
• Voice

If you are interested in learning more or have a special request, simply contact any one of our three convenient locations in the Kansas City area. Our helpful staff can assist you with choosing a private music teacher who is compatible with your child’s personality and skill level.