A child’s first love and hero are his parents. Remember that you are the most important model and teacher for your child. Your most effective role is to participate and enjoy the class yourself, even though your child might choose to sit back and observe. If you are enjoying yourself, your child will soon wish to share that enjoyment with you.

You may feel that you are not particularly musical – perhaps you even describe yourself as being challenged. You may not be able to “keep the beat”. Whatever the level of your technical skill, remember the most important things you can model for your child are simply pleasure, interest, and the desire to participate in music activities.

Furthermore, we know it might be difficult to watch other children participate in the group while your child does not. This is especially true if your child performs all of his class favourites as soon as you arrive home. Try to understand that he is very wisely “practicing” in private and will make his public “debut” when he feels more confident.

Meanwhile, if you feel suddenly overwhelmed with frustration by the lack of your child’s participation in class, just count to three, relax, and participate yourself!