PPP 325: “We need to leave early from the recital.”

PPP 325: “We need to leave early from the recital.”

This is a busy time of the year. To avoid schedule conflicts and the urge to do all the things, parents need to be proactive, set priorities and make difficult decisions for their piano kids.Listen to today's show to learn how. Listen to the full episode here Resources mentioned in today's show FREE Spring 100 Practice Trackers are HERE.March 29th is the 88th day of the year - PIANO DAY!! Join me for a fun PIANO DAY Project. Check it out HERE. Social Sharables Click an image to share directly to your pinterest account. Download an image to share in…
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PPP 307: Break the Cycle (How to Reprogram Negative Communication with Your Piano Kid)

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

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…
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PPP248: How to Win Arguments with Your Older Piano Kid

PPP248: How to Win Arguments with Your Older Piano Kid

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…
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PPP244: The Role of the Parent is Crucial, with London piano teacher, Andra Kruka

PPP244: The Role of the Parent is Crucial, with London piano teacher, Andra Kruka

Piano teacher, Andra Kruka, is a delightful teacher based in London. In recent years, her attention has been drawn to a greater understanding of advanced child psychology. In today's interview, Andra shares several important considerations for parents as they fulfill their crucial role in supporting their children's musical piano journey. Listen to the full episode here Tell us your piano story. Andra Kruka, originally from Latvia, began piano lessons at the age of four. Her musical education was much different then than the way she teaches now. Her parents, like many parents today, wanted to offer a variety of learning…
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PPP178: Mom2Mom Family Mystery Movie Night

PPP178: Mom2Mom Family Mystery Movie Night

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…
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Episode 026: Who’s the Boss?

When you "hire" a teacher, is it the same as an employer hiring an employee?Are you more like a customer buying services similar to the electric or telephone company?Is it like a restaurant where you order what you want off the menu and can request a customized meal?Maybe it's like using a doctor for his or her knowledge and expertise. Listen to the full episode here When you "hire" a teacher, is it the same as an employer hiring an employee?Are you more like a customer buying services similar to the electric or telephone company?Is it like a restaurant where…
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Episode 002: Parent – Teacher Relationship

Listen to the full episode here Episode Highlights: Communication Read your teacher's studio policy.  Make sure you adhere to the terms of the policy. Find out the best way your teacher receives communication.  Text? Email? Telephone? Respect your teacher's office hours. Your child's teacher has the gift of 30-60 minutes of dedicated time with them.  Be sure you have hired a teacher who will speak positive encouragement to you son or daughter during that personal time. Listen to your teacher when they recommend additional vision, hearing, or learning tests for the benefit of your child.  They are able to observe…
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