Parent’s Page

Dear Parents,

Great News… 

Playing the piano is fun & you can help – even if you can’t read music …

If your child does not want to practise, try to find out why and discuss it with the teacher.  

Some common reasons for not practising are:  

  • Confusion:  If your child is not sure what/how to practice, check with the teacher;
  • Discomfort:  Adjust temperature & lighting in the room.  Ensure stool is positioned correctly.
  • Distraction:  Time practice sessions when others in the house are doing homework or are in bed.
  • Missing out:  Record TV programs to watch later or encourage practise when others in the family are helping with chores –  my sons loved to practise to avoid the washing up!

Play Mary-Jayne’s Monkey Games anywhere, eg in the car or while waiting for the tea.


Encourage your child to play to you & to friends & relatives.

Play the listening games together. (Ask the teacher to tell you what to do.  

Help to complete Puzzle Time, make the Balloon Staves and learn flashcards.  

Check your child's equipment & posture regularly

Check your child’s equipment & posture regularly:

Stand behind your child: adjust the stool to left or right until it is in the centre.
Adjust the height of the stool (or provide a firm pad/cushion) until his/her elbows are just higher than the keyboard.  Your child should sit on the front 1/3 of the seat and not lean against the back of the chair.
Move the stool forward/backwards until, with straight arms your child can just reach the back of the keys with a clenched fist. 
Your child’s feet should be flat on the floor.  Provide a footstool (or large book) if necessary.