But what she shared next helped me learn an important lesson:
Before she used any kind of journal, he would practise only when he felt like it.
Some weeks, he didn’t practise at all until 1 hour before his lesson.
Then she got him his first Happy Journal, and he started averaging 1–2 practices a week. They stopped at sticker 51.
With the second journal, he practised even more each week, and they made it up to sticker 85. Still not 100 yet.
Hence she said… “So that’s why I’m getting the third journal. I still give him little presents along the way to motivate him, but the big prize will only come when he finally hits 100… and I believe he can do it this time!”
And here’s my biggest takeaway from this conversation:
Practising is a habit… and habits take time to build.
A child may not hit the goal on the first attempt. Or even the second. But with steady encouragement, gentle discipline, and a bit of momentum, they will get there.
And the best part?
Once the habit is formed, it sticks. It becomes something they carry with them for life. Not just for music, but for anything they choose to pursue.
Hope this gives you a little inspiration for your child’s practice journey, and a reminder that progress grows quietly, one step at a time.
This coming week, me and my teachers will be at Woodlands Health Campus (17th Dec Wed 12pm), and also our Xmas recitals (18th & 19th). See you if you're there! |
