Mom to Mom Archives - Piano Parent Podcast

09Feb 2026 by Shelly Davis No Comments

PPP 375: Raising Independent Children

We all want our kids to grow into confident, capable adults. But independence doesn’t suddenly appear at age 18; it’s built slowly, in small everyday moments. In this episode, we’re talking about simple, practical ways to raise independent children in daily life, and how piano lessons can naturally support those same life skills along the way. This isn’t about creating perfect practicers or super-achieving kids. It’s about helping children learn to think, decide, try again, and take ownership — both at home and at the piano. Listen to the full episode here Watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/UO3lSwTsKlo Episode Highlights Why Independence Matters Independent kids: Take responsibility for their actions Learn from mistakes Develop problem-solving skills Build confidence in their own abilities Become more motivated from within 5 Daily Habits That Build…

12Jan 2026 by Shelly Davis

PPP 373: What Black Beauty Teaches Us About Parenting

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Tight Reins, Loose Hands & Steam‑Engine ExpectationsAs part of my New Year’s resolution to read more classic literature, I’ve been listening to Black Beauty by Anna Sewell on Audible — and I’m continually struck by how this 19th‑century story about horses mirrors the ways we parent today.In this episode, we explore how different driver styles in Black Beauty reflect common approaches to parenting — from controlling every move to disengaged oversight to relentless pressure. What books are you reading this year? Share your insights and takeaways with me here. Listen to the full episode here Watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/76ERRJ65ktE Episode Highlights Historical Context — Anna Sewell and Black BeautyWritten by Anna Sewell in 1877 as her only book, Black Beauty was intended to increase kindness toward horses and educate Victorian…

03Nov 2025 by Shelly Davis

PPP 369: Hey Mom, Can We Talk? (a reminder to parents to monitor our own screen time)

Mom to Mom, Podcast

As kids get older, it can seem like they don’t want or need as much attention from us—but that’s far from true. This episode shares the real truth that middle and high school students are craving adult attention and meaningful conversation at home. Listen to the full episode here Episode Highlights You’ll learn:Why your presence still matters (even when they pretend it doesn’t)How your own screen habits shape your family’s communicationSimple, age-appropriate conversation starters for kids of all agesHow piano practice time can be an opportunity for emotional connectionConversation Starters Include:“First, Last, Best, Worst” storytelling gameEmotion-based prompts for every age group—from elementary to college studentsRelated Episodes: PPP 194 – Four Stages of Parenting PPP 147 – Screen Time teacher chat with Judy Wilkins and Dawn Ivers PPP 368 - "Three Questions…

08Jan 2024 by Shelly Davis

PPP 355: Take Inventory of Your 168-Hour Week

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Listen to the full episode here 24 hours each day, 7 days every week.We all have 168 hours each week. If we're not careful, those hours will get filled with other people's agendas. Now is the time to take inventory of your schedule and make time for the things that are important to you. Resources mentioned in today's show Watch the companion video:https://youtu.be/8fgP4Z3L3_Q 168-Hours Worksheet Complete the form below to get your own copy of the 168-Hours Worksheet in either printable or digital from. Download the FREE168 Hours WorksheetUse this handy tool to get a clear picture of your weekly calendar so you can schedule time to practice on the days between lessons. Your teacher will be so proud!Send me the worksheet!Built with ConvertKit Social Sharables Click an image to…

02Oct 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 352: What to Expect in the First Year of Piano Lessons

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Welcome new Piano Parents! If you and your piano kid are new to the wonderful world of piano lessons, you may be wondering what kinds of things they will be learning during this first year. Today's episode gives you a few things to expect. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts: Leave a note in the comment section below Ask a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.com Share this show on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest To help…

04Sep 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 349: How to Make Your Piano Kid Fail Proof

Mom to Mom, Podcast

We do everything we can, as parents, to set our kids up for success at the piano. We pay for lessons, drive them to their lesson, provide them with an instrument to practice. What steps should we take to help our piano kids overcome failure? How can we make their piano journey "so simple, plain, or reliable as to leave no opportunity for error, misuse, or failure"? Learn how in today's episode. Click the play button below. Listen to the full episode here Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast.…

07Aug 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 345: Time to Clean Off Your Piano

Mom to Mom, Podcast

As we gear up for a new school year and a new semester of piano lessons, this is a great time to declutter your piano or keyboard. Let's do it together! You can clean off your piano while you listen to this episode! Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show PPP 329: Spring Cleaning Our Music BagsPPP 003: Piano Geography (How I use the little dogs and cars to teach the names of the piano keys)Note Speed Card GameTheory Time Wacky 8ths Card Game Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great…

31Jul 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 344: “Make Space for Your Child’s Experiences” A Parenting Do Over with Ashlee Young

Mom to Mom, Podcast, Summer Mini Episode

Back in March, I interviewed Ashlee Young (You can catch that interview at www.PianoParentPodcast.com/324). When the official interview was over, I asked Ashlee if I could ask her one more question."Is there a moment in your parenting that you can share where you would really like a 'Do Over'?"So often on social media and in my interviews with guests, we try to put our best foot forward. That is as it should be. We want to offer professional, succinct information that will be helpful to listeners. The reality is that most of my guests are parents just like you. They are in the trenches with busy schedules, trying to keep up with practice routines, dealing with tired and cranky kids, moody teenagers, and doing the best they can.I hope you enjoy…

26Jun 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 339: “Before you leap…” A parenting do over with Cher Kretz

Mom to Mom, Podcast, Summer Mini Episode

Back in September, I interviewed Cher Kretz (You can catch that interview at www.PianoParentPodcast.com/309). When the official interview was over, I asked Cher if I could ask her one more question."Is there a moment in your parenting that you can share where you would really like a 'Do Over'?"So often on social media and in my interviews with guests, we try to put our best foot forward. That is as it should be. We want to offer professional, succinct information that will be helpful to listeners. The reality is that most of my guests are parents just like you. They are in the trenches with busy schedules, trying to keep up with practice routines, dealing with tired and cranky kids, moody teenagers, and doing the best they can.I hope you enjoy…

15May 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 333: Summer Reading

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Summertime is a great time to take a much-deserved break! It's also a great time to catch up on reading or, at least maintain your reading capabilities. The same tactics that help new readers to read library books will also work for piano kids learning to read new music. Find some helpful tips for reading both kinds of literature on today's show. Listen to the full episode here Social Shareables Click an image to share directly to your Pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image is not branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment…

17Apr 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 329: Spring Cleaning Our Music Bags

Mom to Mom, Podcast

I am amazed at the things students collect in their music bags. I've seen everything from books and music that was completed long ago to old theory tests and worksheets to candy wrappers from my prize box. Once I even found a banana that was well past its expiration!So many odd items creep into my own music bag. Exactly why do I have three types of breath mints, two lip balms, and seven hair ties?!?On today's show, let's clean out our music bags together. Listen to the full episode here Watch the companion video https://youtu.be/rWHBkQ6MPkISee more videos on the Piano Parent YouTube channel. Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please…

10Apr 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 328: This mom did everything right and they still quit

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Sometimes, no matter how much you want your piano kids to enjoy their lessons and learn to make music, they just don't get it. Sometimes, even if you've done everything right, they still end up quitting.That's the topic of today's show. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Spring 100 practice trackersPPP 002: The Parent/Teacher Relationship Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:Leave a note in the comment section belowAsk a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.comShare this show on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and PinterestTo…

06Feb 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 319: Reflections on last week’s episode

Mom to Mom, Podcast

I really enjoyed talking with Winston Hall last week. One of the things he said really struck me and I've been thinking about it ever since. He said, "Reading music is the most analytical way to make music." and that wasn't how his brain was wired.My brain actually feels safer and more confident with the music, in fact, I feel frozen if I don't have music in front of me; I don't know what to play! Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Winston Hall's interview: PPP 318: Wrong Note Right: The Story of an Accidental Piano Man Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link…

30Jan 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 318: “Wrong Note Right: the Story of an Accidental Piano Man” with author, Winston Hall

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Winston Hall is a self-proclaimed "below-average piano student" who was able to overcome obstacles that might have stopped most people - the inability to read music, his own self-doubt, and debilitating stage fright. Winston is now one of the most popular entertainers in the Northwest Lousiana area.This is an episode that you will bookmark and listen to again and again and share with your piano parent friendswe Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Get Winston's e-Book "Wrong Note Right: The Story of an Accidental Piano Man" on AmazonWinston Hall Music on YouTubeFollow Winston on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/winstonhallmusic/From the PPP Archives:PPP 091: Learn about musical career possibilities with Piano Teacher and Composer, Lisa Donovan LukasPPP 065: A Chat with Note Rush App Developer, Thomas GraystonPPP 275:…

09Jan 2023 by Shelly Davis

PPP 315: Allowing for Miskates, er, Mistakes

Mom to Mom, Podcast

My list of 22 for 2022 turned out to be a list of things I failed to do. When I look back on it, I don't celebrate the things I was able to finish, I just feel defeated by the areas where I missed the mark.Rather than aiming for perfection, I think it is good for our children to see us make mistakes and move on, gracefully. Our mistakes shouldn't devastate us and our kids need to learn to give themselves the same kind of mercy.In this P3 episode, we talk more about helping our piano kids to allow for mistakes in their piano practice. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Ten Ways to Overcome PerfectionismPPP 272: My List of 21 for 2021 (recaps 2021…

24Oct 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 314: Mindfulness and Breathing with Dr. Fernanda Nieto

Mom to Mom, Podcast, Teacher Interviews

After dealing with everything we have over the last two years, our brains have gotten really good at facing problems and anxiety - maybe too good. We might have accidentally trained our brains to be hyperresponsive to uncomfortable circumstances. On today's show, Dr. Fernanda Nieto shares some wonderful ways to help our brains and our bodies to relax and breathe. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Reach out to Fernanda on her website for a copy of her presentation notes and additional resources.www.FernandaNietoPiano.comConscious DisciplineBig Life JournalMoovlee videosGoNoodle Flow"Growing Up Mindful" book by Christopher Willard Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this…

19Sep 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 309: Author, Cher Kretz, shares her GPS Life System

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Returning to the show from her previous appearance in PPP209, author, and counselor, Cher Kretz is back to share more helpful insight for parents. On today's show you will hear about her latest book release, "30 Days to Higher Hopes" and her GPS Life System. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Connect with Cher:Website: TheFocusedMindset.comPodcast: Parenting with the Focused MindsetNew Book: 30 Days to Higher HopesFrom the PPP Archives:PPP110: Ten Ways to Genuinely Compliment Your Piano Kid Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank…

05Sep 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 307: Break the Cycle (How to Reprogram Negative Communication with Your Piano Kid)

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Have you ever found yourself having a negative reaction to someone else's negative reaction?Do your defenses or emotions kick into the situation, making the conversation even more tense?On today's show, we will talk about how to disrupt your brain's reactionary routine and reprogram the cycle of communication. Listen to the full episode here How about this scenerio? You know your piano kid needs to practice their assignment before their piano lesson next week.Below are two possible habit routines that you and your child could be creating.On the left, is a negative spiral that leaves everyone frustrated and minimal practicing done.On the right, is a possible alternative where you disrupt the defensiveness, both your child's and your own, and create a much better environment in your home. CUE You are the…

08Aug 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 303: WWYD – Attending the Lesson

Mom to Mom, Podcast

This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey.Just as your child can only learn independence through experience, this summer series will give you ideas about whether or not you should attend the piano lesson with your child. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD Series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping LessonsPPP 297: WWYD - Practice TimePPP 298: WWYD - Letter NamesPPP 299: WWYD - Practice SpacePPP 301: WWYD - No PracticePPP 302: WWYD - Schedule ConflictsPPP 303: WWYD - Attending the Lesson From the PPP Archives PPP 007: Should I Stay or Should I…

01Aug 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 302: WWYD – Schedule Conflicts

Mom to Mom, Podcast

This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey.Just as you put appointments on your calendar to avoid double booking, this summer series will give you ideas about how to handle scheduling conflicts with piano events. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD Series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping LessonsPPP 297: WWYD - Practice TimePPP 298: WWYD - Letter NamesPPP 299: WWYD - Practice SpacePPP 301: WWYD - No PracticePPP 302: WWYD - Schedule ConflictsPPP 303: WWYD - Attending the Lesson From the PPP Archives PPP 012: What About Makeup Lessons and Schedule Conflicts?PPP 102:…

25Jul 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 301: WWYD – No Practice

Mom to Mom, Podcast

This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey.Just like you wouldn't skip a dentist appointment if your child forgot to brush their teeth, today's session will give you ideas about what to do if your piano kid goes the whole week between lessons with no practice. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD Series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping LessonsPPP 297: WWYD - Practice TimePPP 298: WWYD - Letter NamesPPP 299: WWYD - Practice SpacePPP 301: WWYD - No PracticePPP 302: WWYD - Schedule ConflictsPPP 303: WWYD - Attending the Lesson From the PPP…

11Jul 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 299: WWYD – Practice Space

Mom to Mom, Podcast

This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey. Just as your child puts their backpack by the door the night before school and you have your car keys in a bowl on a table in the entry hallway, this summer series will give you ideas about how to handle potential obstacles in your piano studies. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping Lessons PPP 297: WWYD - Practice Time PPP 298: WWYD - Letter Names PPP 299: WWYD - Practice Space PPP 301: WWYD - No Practice PPP…

04Jul 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 298: WWYD – Letter Names

Mom to Mom, Podcast

This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey. Just as you have drilled your phone number and address in your kid’s memory and you have ICE contact information on your cell phone, this summer series will give you ideas about how to handle potential obstacles in your piano studies. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD Series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping Lessons PPP 297: WWYD - Practice Time PPP 298: WWYD - Letter Names PPP 299: WWYD - Practice Space PPP 301: WWYD - No Practice PPP 302: WWYD - Schedule Conflicts PPP…

27Jun 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 297: WWYD – Practice Time

Mom to Mom, Podcast

This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey. Just as your child has a set bedtime and you set the bathroom clock ahead 5 minutes to avoid being late, this summer series will give you ideas about how to handle potential obstacles in your piano studies. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping Lessons PPP 297: WWYD - Practice Time PPP 298: WWYD - Letter Names PPP 299: WWYD - Practice Space PPP 301: WWYD - No Practice PPP 302: WWYD - Schedule Conflicts PPP 303: WWYD -…

20Jun 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 296: WWYD – Stopping Lessons

Mom to Mom, Podcast

This summer, I’m doing a special series called, “What would you do?” We’re taking a little break from the longer format episodes to focus on individual scenarios you might face as you and your piano kid navigate this musical journey. Just as your child practices fire drills at school and you have a backup plan in case it rains on the day of their birthday party, this summer series will give you ideas about how to handle potential obstacles in your piano studies. Listen to the full episode here Listen to the whole WWYD Series PPP 296: WWYD - Stopping Lessons PPP 297: WWYD - Practice Time PPP 298: WWYD - Letter Names PPP 299: WWYD - Practice Space PPP 301: WWYD - No Practice PPP 302: WWYD - Schedule…

06Jun 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 294: The Journey to Musical Mastery

Mom to Mom, Podcast

A few days ago my friend and fellow piano teacher, Kristin Yost, posted a document from her music school. She called the document "Journey to Musical Mastery" and in it, she offers parents a basic guideline of expectations for each phase of learning to make music.With Kristin's permission, I am sharing the document with you today. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Centre for Musical Minds, Frisco, TexasCMM's Journey to Musical Mastery documentFrom the PPP Archives:PPP036: Get SMART with Your MusicPPP039: Get SMART with Your Music ... Again Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the…

21Mar 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP 283: Spring Fever

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Sometimes in the spring, I start getting a feeling of overwhelm and wish I didn't have all the responsibilities that I have. Do you feel that way? Do you ever get Spring Fever? I wonder if your piano kid feels the same way. Let's talk about Spring Fever and how to overcome it on today's show... Listen to the full episode here Social Shareables Click an image to share directly to your Pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn’t branded, please link back to this page and help us spread the word about all the great resources at Piano Parent Podcast. Thank you! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts: Leave a note in the comment section below Ask a question…

21Feb 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP279: An “Original” ELVIS Impersonator

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Recently, my husband and I took his parents to a concert. Though I was glad to spend time with them, I was not looking forward to seeing another Elvis Presley impersonator. What I experienced at the concert was something completely unexpected so I thought I'd share it with you on today's show. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show While this is not a commercial for either of these performers, I am happy to share their websites: Moses Snow - Elvis Presley Tribute Artist Bennie Wheels - Johnny Cash Tribute Artist Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in your social circles. If the image isn't branded, please link back to this page and help us…

14Feb 2022 by Shelly Davis

PPP278: Training Elephants – Learned Helplessness vs Limiting Beliefs

Mom to Mom, Podcast

I heard a new term the other day, "Learned Helplessness".According to Psychology Today, "Learned helplessness occurs when an individual continuously faces a negative, uncontrollable situation and stops trying to change their circumstances, even when they have the ability to do so. For example, a smoker may repeatedly try and fail to quit. He may grow frustrated and come to believe that nothing he does will help, and therefore he stops trying altogether. The perception that one cannot control the situation essentially elicits a passive response to the harm that is occurring." Listen to the full episode here I've heard about elephant trainers who trained baby elephants to stay in one place by tying a chain around their feet. No matter how much they struggled and pulled at the chain, they…

20Dec 2021 by Shelly Davis

PPP272: My List of 21 in 2021

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Whether you are great at setting goals or stay up well past midnight on January 1 making New Year's Resolutions, it's a good idea to make plans and have things to aim for. Last January I made a list of 21 things I'd like to accomplish in the year 2021. Listen to hear which ones I finished, which ones I will move to my 22 for 2022 list, and which ones I decided weren't that important afterall. Listen to the full episode here A few years ago I was listening to Gretchen Rubin's "Happier" podcast. It was the close of 2018 and she and her sister, Elizabeth were reviewing their list of 18 things for 2018. I enjoyed hearing their lists - even the things they didn't quite accomplish. This…

23Aug 2021 by Shelly Davis

PPP255: Piano Practice is Supposed to be Messy! – This one’s for the piano kids.

Mom to Mom, Podcast, Practicing and Motivation

Piano kids sometimes have the misconception or misunderstanding that practicing piano at home should sound perfect.Learning to play the piano, just like any other job, is going to have messy bits.Have you ever watched a painter or an artist at work?Have you ever helped your parents do yardwork?Have you ever baked cookies with your grandmother?Paintings, manicured landscapes, and chocolate chip cookies all start messy before they become beautiful. Listen to the full episode here Painter A painter adds texture and color to a blank canvas.When you practice, you are adding new skills and musical ideas to your brain and fingers. You are noticing details in the music to add to your final performance. As you become more proficient in your playing, you will add dynamics and musical expressiveness to your…

05Jul 2021 by Shelly Davis

PPP248: How to Win Arguments with Your Older Piano Kid

Communication, Mom to Mom, Podcast

I've said more than once on this show that parents are the most important people in the world to their children. As they grow into the teen years, it may feel like you are their least favorite person and that hurts. It's a natural part of the growing process but it still hurts. Listen to the full episode here As your child ages and gets into the teen years, they need to start being a little more independent. The road to independence can be a very bumpy one that can lead to a lot of arguments if you continue to parent your teen like you did when they were younger. (PPP194 Trent Dilfer talks about four stages of parenting.)My goal for today's show is to help you keep the upper…

05Apr 2021 by Shelly Davis

PPP235: “My first-grader doesn’t practice like I thought she would.” Is this a practicing issue or a parenting issue?

Mom to Mom, Podcast

One of the reasons I started this podcast almost five years ago is that I wanted to help parents understand the ins and outs of piano lessons. When I saw this topic come up on an online teacher forum recently, I knew it should be addressed here on the podcast. Listen to the full episode here Is this a practicing issue or a parenting issue? Here is the basic idea: The parent of a first-grader who just started lessons this year is letting the teacher know they will not be taking lessons over the summer because the first-grader isn't practicing like the parent thought they would.We will be addressing 10 reasons to continue lessons during the summer in a few weeks, in episode 240. I always bring you a list of…

15Feb 2021 by Shelly Davis

PPP228:Don’t Fall Into This Trap

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Okay, piano parents, it's time for a heart to heart.While I am grateful for your involvement in your piano kids' learning and I know you are trying to help, I need to let you know that the thing we are talking about today doesn't help your piano kid. In fact, you may be stalling their progress and inhibiting their ability to read music fluently.Today, we are talking about writing finger numbers and letter names in your piano kid's music. Listen to the full episode here Try these alternatives instead If you have written letters in your child's music in the past, please don't lose heart. Keep helping them; but, now you know a better way to help them.Here is how you can break yourself of this temptation.Empower your piano kid…

21Dec 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP222: The Last Episode of the Year

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Enjoy this final episode of 2020. We will take a short break from December 28-January 10. We will be back on January 11, 2021. Until then, you can also find lots of previous shows in the Piano Parent Archives. Teacher Interviews Parent Interviews Teacher Chats Musical Mysteries Tenth Episode Lists Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Ryder Carroll's Bullet Journal Website Emily Mills' Sketchnote Academy Website Gretchen Rubin's 20 for 2020 List Gretchen's Podcast about the 20 for 2020 List My 2020 Bullet Journal Here are a few pages from my 2020 Bullet Journal. I clearly need to read more books in 2021!! Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts: Leave a note in the comment section below Ask a question at pianoparentpodcast@gmail.com Share this show…

30Nov 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP219: The Creative Freedom of Constraint

Mom to Mom, Podcast

I recently read a book called, "Draw to Win". On page 142 of that book is this quote by Orson Welles, "The enemy of art is the absence of limitations." I don't know if I got anything else out of that book but this quote has stuck with me. So much so that I decided to devote an entire podcast episode to it. Listen to the full episode here Here are three thoughts I'd like to share with you about the creative freedom of constraint. Use no more than three colors One of the suggestions in the Draw to Win book was to use no more than three colors when you are creating.At first, that might seem very limiting but I think that's the point. You must learn to be…

23Nov 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP218: DECIDE to be Thankful, even in 2020

Mom to Mom, Podcast

This year's holiday season will be unconventional with many families still in lockdown or with limited gatherings, even for families. There has been so much loss this year: school, jobs, family members. Even with all the loss, I believe we must still adopt a grateful attitude. but we're going to have to be intentional about it. Listen to the full episode here In last week's chat about Christmas music, Karen Young talked about a student of hers who enjoys improvising. I thought I would take her improvisation advice to him and adapt it to the upcoming holiday. "Make a plan" (that includes flexibility) Without a plan or some sort of itinerary, everyone will have different expectations but they won't be synced together. This leaves room for disappointment. "You can do…

28Sep 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP211: Just Keep Swimming

Mom to Mom, Podcast

It's been a while since it was just you and me. - all the way back to 203. 7 episodes. We've had some wonderful guests on over the last several weeks but I'm kind of glad to be a little more personal today. I wonder, how are you doing? Really?? I'm a little overwhelmed, honestly. Listen to the full episode here It seems like all my time is obligated, committed, dedicated. To good things: husband, children, parents, teaching To things I've signed up for Time that is no longer "mine" I think this is a common cycle for parents. When I with children, I think of the other things I ought to be doing. When I find time to do something that "I" want to do, I think I'm missing…

14Sep 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP209: Good Parent VIBES with School Counselor, Cher Kretz

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Cher Kretz is a Solution Focused Mindset Coach, school counselor, and host of the Parenting 2.0 The Focused Mindset podcast.Cher joins us on the podcast today to help parents touch base with their kids now that we are several weeks into this crazy school year. How are things going at home? Is there anything your kids need to tell you that would help them navigate their school work?Listen to the episode to learn how to create good VIBES for yourself and for your children. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show Parenting 2.0 The Focused Mindset PodcastCher's website, The Focused MindsetCher's free VIBES download for Piano Parent Podcast listeners.From the PPP Arvhives:PPP110: Ten Ways to Genuinely Compliment Your Piano Kid Social Sharables Click an image to…

17Aug 2020 by Shelly Davis

Encore Presentation PPP025: Piano Parent Interview with Melissa Cornelison

Mom to Mom, Podcast, Practicing and Motivation

This is an encore presentation of episode 025, an interview with piano parent, Melissa Cornelison. Melissa Cornelison is the mom of two boys who have been studying piano since they were very young children. Her family recently moved and had to transfer to a new piano teacher. Learn about how they made a smooth transition for their boys in this episode. Listen to the full episode here How do you schedule practice at home? Treat home practice like homework, chores, or any other responsibility. Kyle, Melissa’s older son, practices three hours each day. He hopes to make music part of his profession some day. While Kaden isn’t as passionate about music as Kyle, he still practices piano 30-45 minutes daily. What struggles have your guys overcome through piano study? Kaden struggled…

27Jul 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP203: What do you expect?

Mom to Mom, Podcast

On our annual road trip this summer to celebrate our anniversary, my husband Duane and I listened to a couple of audio books. We would listen a while and discuss a while. It was an interesting way to learn more about each other and help pass the time driving those long west-Texas miles. One of the books I selected was Gretchen Rubin's book The Four Tendencies. I thought you might enjoy hearing what we thought about the book, and each other's tendency. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show The Four Tendencies Book Take the Four Tendencies Quiz From the PPP Arvhives: PPP002: The Parent Teacher Relationship PPP180: Ten Ways to Flip the Script, with Kate Webb PPP201: This is a crucial time to talk about…

22Jun 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP198: The Etching of Character

Mom to Mom, Podcast

The word character comes from the Greek Kharakter (kar-ak-Tour) which means to engrave or stamp or brand. Aristotle said the development of character comes from making 1000 choices and then making 1000 choices again. He also said, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit." Listen to the full episode here Part of the professional development of the staff at the charter school where I teach includes a wonderful lecture series from Hillsdale College. A primary focus of Hillsdale College and their academies, and the school where I teach is developing character in our students. Some of the character virtues we teach at school are self-control, integrity, honor, gratefulness, compassion, wisdom, humility, justice, and courage. I spotlighted a composer to share with the…

01Jun 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP195: Dr. Heather Nelson Shares How to be Cautiously Creative During This Time of COVID

Mom to Mom, Podcast, Teacher Interviews

During times of crisis, many of us find comfort in gathering together, often singing in worship. Unfortunately, that might not be a good idea right now due to the uncertainty of exactly how COVID is spread and contracted in the community. Dr. Heather Nelson, a vocologist with a PhD in voice pedagogy and voice science shares, her insight into how we can be cautiously creative when it comes to gathering and singing at this time. Listen to the full episode here Singing is a valuable asset for music study Parents can help their piano kids develop a stronger sense of music internally through singing and listening. Use singsong in your conversations. Instead of speaking, sing your words. You may feel silly at first but that's what children love! Call and…

04May 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP191: May the Fourth be with You – May You be the Force

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Happy Star Wars Day!! Disclaimer: I'm not really a big Star Wars fan but I do love special days to commemorate fun things like Pi Day (3/14) and Piano Day (88th day of the year). Any day is a good day for a celebration! Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned on today's show Star Wars Day PPP073: A Break in Your Routine is Good Dave Brubeck's "Take Five" New York's Carnegie Hall Opening Day, May 5, 1891 Philippians 4 For true Star Wars fans: From ClassicalMPR - Star Wars Music: What were John Williams' classical influences? Hit Song Deconsructed - Star Wars Main Title Deconstructed Final Thoughts Use this day to search out an unexpected pleasantry. You may have to dig a little bit under all the challenges…

20Apr 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP189: Take Care of Your Mental Health with Nicole Grant, M.Ed., LPC-S

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Well, it's been over a month since we've all been put into quarantine. At first it felt like an extended spring break. In fact, that's what our school called it, "Take an extra week for spring break." The first week of e-learning and online piano lessons was fun because it was different. Now that we've been doing this for a while, the fun is starting to wear off. It's no longer new and interesting but it is still vital that we stay at home. We all may be feeling more stress than usual under these circumstances so this is a good time to check in with Nicole Grant, a licensed professional counselor. Listen to the full episode here Connect with Nicole You can connect with Nicole and her colleagues at…

13Apr 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP188: The Value of Piano Study (especially during a pandemic)

Mom to Mom, Podcast

You know learning to play the piano is a valuable skill, that's why you signed your child up for piano lessons. However, you may be having second thoughts about continuing lessons while we are all under a quarantine. Is it really worth all the trouble of online lessons with everything else you've got going on? My answer to you is a solid YES! and I'll tell you why in today's episode. Listen to the full episode here The usual suspects You already know the usual reasons for studying piano: eye-hand coordination, self-discipline and patience, enhancement of other academic skills. Here are some past episodes and an article if you'd like a reminder of some of the great skills that accompany learning to play the piano. PPP014: Realistic Goals of Piano…

06Apr 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP187: Parent Chat: Coping with Quarantine with Sanette Brems, Beth Hughes, and Dawn Ivers

Mom to Mom, Parent Interviews, Podcast, Teacher Chat

Up until now, I've been pretty quiet about the COVID-19 pandemic. I was being inundated with information and was feeling a bit overwhelmed and wondered if you might be feeling the same way. Now that we've had some time to adjust and get over the initial upheaval, I think it's a good time to come together to help each other through this tough situation. We have two piano parents on the podcast today to share how they are helping their children deal with uncertainty while helping them build a framework in order to continue their education and recreation while being quarantined at home. Listen to additional teacher chats here. Listen to the full episode here Learn more about our guests Sanette Brems - Mother of six beautiful and talented daughters. Sanette…

03Feb 2020 by Shelly Davis

PPP178: Mom2Mom Family Mystery Movie Night

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Today's episode is more about parenting and less about piano. Since parenting is better when you and your child have a closer relationship and share things together, I think this episode still fits in with my goal of helping you make the most of piano lessons. We've reinstated something fun in our family that I thought you might enjoy too. That is Family Mystery Movie Night. Listen to the full episode here The "mystery" isn't necessarily the genre of the movie, though it could be if that's something your family enjoys. The mystery is exactly what the feature presentation will be. We used to this when my kids were younger and just got out of the habit over time. Since I've only got a few more years with Tracy being…

16Dec 2019 by Shelly Davis

PPP173: Highlights from 2019

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Our gift to you - highlights from some of the most downloaded episodes of 2019. We've taken some of the most interesting points from the top episodes and put them all in one place with links to the episodes if you want to dig deeper. Listen to the full episode here PPP133: What's Really Going on When Your Piano Kid Says, "This is too hard!" Doing new things can be challenging for all of us. Piano students are asked to do new things constantly. Once they master one concept, another is given to them without pause. Faced with something new, in this case a new musical concept to master or a new song to play, students have to exert a lot of conscious effort. They have to intentionally think about what…

18Nov 2019 by Shelly Davis

PPP169: Our Children Believe What We Tell Them

Mom to Mom, Podcast

Today's episode was inspired by a quote I read in a book by or about Garry Marshall. I even took a picture of the quote but, of course, can't find the picture. It was a picture of his grandfather waving outside an apartment window. Garry said, "My grandfather told me I was funny and I believed him." Listen to the full episode here If you're familiar with Garry Marshall, you may be as big a fan as I am. If you've not familiar with Garry Marshall, he directed several TV sitcoms in the 1970's. The Odd Couple, Happy Days, Mork & Mindy. He also directed many romantic comedy movies like Pretty Woman and The Princess Diaries. I remember reading his book but I really remember that quote about the impact…

04Nov 2019 by Shelly Davis

PPP167: Our Kids Will Lie to Us

Mom to Mom, Podcast

I don't mean that title to sound as harsh as it does but I couldn't think of another way to say it. As a matter of self-preservation I believe we are all capable of lying or only telling enough of the truth to make things easier on ourselves. Our children and teens are no different. In fact, they haven't had the opportunity to learn from this mistake so they are likely to try it even more often and with more confidence. Listen to the full episode here I don't know many people, especially young people, who really latch on to responsibility and accountability. These things tend to come about through maturity and learning the consequence of lack of responsibility and accountability or the positive results that accompany being responsible and…

15Apr 2019 by Shelly Davis

PPP138: Dear Mom, Hang in There!

Mom to Mom

In case you didn’t know, this podcast is called the Piano Parent Podcast. Most episodes deal with common obstacles or struggles students face when learning to play the piano. Today, I’d like to spend our time together by focusing on just you, parents. Specifically, today I want to encourage you to stand firm and do not give in. Listen to the full episode here [podcast src="https://html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/9341993/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/187dba/" height="90" width="100%" placement="top" theme="custom"]Click here to download this episode. Click here to download this episode. Remember the goal is to train your child Since my youngest is 16 and my parenting skills are a little dated, I decided to check out what others say about modern parenting. This article by Robert Locke from LIfehack.org had some interesting things to say about this topic. He…