Dear Families: Setting Up for Success–Practice and Progress

Dear SSM Families,

This is the second installment of our SSM initiative to support those in the role of practice partner—at home and in group classes.

Join Us!  Parent Talk: Surviving the Twinkles — Tips and Tricks for Parents

For any parent or practice partner from Pre-Twinkle through Early Book 1.

📅 Sunday, November 9 | 🕒 3:00–4:00 PM
📍 Covenant Presbyterian Church, 326 Segoe Road

Whether you’re starting practice with your child for the first time or continuing your Suzuki journey, the new school year brings an opportunity to:

Establish New Habits and Routines

  • Private lessons and group classes have a set schedule—home practice can too!

  • Set practice for a consistent daily time, or vary times based on your family’s schedule.

  • Revisit and reevaluate what’s working often.

Set aside time this week to establish your home practice routine—it’s worth the effort!

Set Intentions and Goals

Consider focusing on:

  • Consistent daily practice

  • Daily listening

  • Specific technical skill development

  • Cooperative, positive practice sessions

The goals you set for the year—or even for a single month—help drive progress and motivation.

Equipment and Materials

Everything is easier with the right tools:

  • Is your listening system easy to access?

  • Do you have the necessary books and music?

  • Is your instrument in good condition?

 

This year, SSM is thrilled to introduce Welcome Bags for our newest students, including:
🎒 SSM tote bag
📓 Notebook and pen
⭐ Sticker chart and stickers
🎲 Practice toys for focus and fun (plushie, balancing toys, big dice)

Having materials readily available helps set up every practice for success.

Big-Picture Practice Goals

It’s easy to get caught up in the daily checklist—but these larger goals give practice lasting value:

  • Discovery: Learn how to focus and think critically

  • Problem-Solving: Use creative games; break skills into small steps

  • Emotional Regulation: Tolerate frustration, navigate stress

  • Connection: Nurture your relationship with your child through music

Practice and Results

Keep motivation high by:
🎻 Participating in group classes and play-ins
🎶 Preparing and performing in recitals and special events
🤝 Building community with your SSM friends

To make the most of your practice:

  • Listen to the Suzuki reference recordings — it’s the magic in the method!

  • Understand what your teacher has asked you to work on.

  • Take notes or videos, and don’t hesitate to ask your teacher for clarification.

Remember Why You’re Here

You are here because you care.
You believe your child can learn to play.
You are enthusiastic, respectful, and supportive.
You work to enjoy every step of the journey.
You accept the challenges as part of growth.

Your positive, encouraging presence is indispensable in your child’s musical development.

Thank You

Thank you for your investment of time, patience, and energy in your child’s education with Suzuki Strings of Madison.

Our gift to you:
🎥 Watch this video
🎧 Listen to this inspiring podcast

With a twinkling spirit,
Diana