Making Piano Practice Fun at Home

Practicing piano doesn’t have to be a chore—when practice feels like play, kids are far more likely to stick with it. Here are some research-backed ways to keep the joy alive while still building skills.

Offer Real Choices

Instead of dictating every step, offer two good options: “Do you want to start with scales or your new piece?” This simple shift supports autonomy, which research shows is a key driver of motivation.

Turn Practice into Games

• Beat the Buzzer: Set a timer for 90 seconds to improve one tricky spot.

• Three Ways Play: Play normally, then whisper-soft, then staccato “popcorn” style.

• Duet Dash: Parent taps a steady beat while the student plays.

Praise Effort, Not Talent

Celebrate problem-solving, persistence, and experimentation: “You tried three different fingerings until you found the smoothest one!” This kind of praise encourages resilience and a growth mindset.

Sources:

• Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The “what” and “why” of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227–268.

• Mueller, C. M., & Dweck, C. S. (1998). Praise for intelligence can undermine children’s motivation and performance. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 75(1), 33–52.

• McPherson, G. E., & Davidson, J. W. (2002). Musical practice: Mother and child interactions during the first year of learning an instrument. Music Education Research, 4(1), 141–156.