TIPS FOR SUCCESS
I want you to increase your skills, confidence level, and ability to learn more by yourself after this class.
If you are supporting a learner in Guitar as a parent or caregiver, here are some things you can do:
- Watch my videos I put all my videos on Canvas so students can watch them at any time. You will need to have access to an acoustic guitar & purchase the method book, and in addition to all the videos in Canvas, that is all a student will need. Students who are struggling may want watch the video during & outside class so that they understand what is expected before using an instrument. Students can bring those struggles and issues to me during class and I will be able to help them individually. Beginning music students need to practice at home as well as in our class. These videos will help them to recreate learning that used to only be available at school.
- Keep track of progress: In a self-paced classroom I provide suggested deadlines and plenty of support during class, but your student is ultimately responsible for their own progress. You can support your student by frequently checking in: "How are you doing in Ukulele? Are you on pace or catching up? What do you need to do next?" Asking these questions helps ensure that your child is progressing and helps them get better at managing their own learning. Encourage your child to recognize what help they need so that when they complete our Daily Check-In they can ask for that help. Impress upon your child the importance of working in a focused way during class - their only time with an instrument, method book, and teacher who can answer questions. Nearly all our remediation can be taken care of in class instead of during one of our assigned remediation periods or after school.
- Emphasize perseverance and self-advocacy: I truly believe any student can be successful in Guitar -- even if it is hard (I have yet to meet someone who didn't struggle at least a little with a new instrument). Grit is not built overnight. It takes time for students to become confident problem-solvers and often they will fail before they succeed. When this happens, encourage your child to keep trying and ask for my support whenever they need it (remember, we check in every day!). Eventually, and with enough effort, your child can master the Guitar!