Great expectations are both realistic and obtainable. This is where many children and parents get lost with piano. Why? Because our expectations will do one of two things for us - open a door, or close a door. Giving children great expectations maximizes their potential with an honest picture of how to succeed in piano. Parents and teachers have the ability to open doors and windows of piano possibilities that will help children reach their musical potential. But this effort takes awareness, and great piano resources.
The most common reason why children in piano get discouraged stems from inappropriate expectations that give kids a distorted picture of learning. Expectations that are too low will not sustain growth, and will leave kids without necessary skills. Expectations that are too high create artificial barriers that give kids a perception of failure. Realistic, honest expectations cut through arificial barriers, steer kids away from unnecessary feelings of failure, and keep them focused on a positive plan for success over time.
Unfortunately, many of the expectations moms, dads and children have about learning piano come from what C. Wright Mills calls a Sociological Imagination that we get from television, the movies, rumor, and myth. Most parents are unaware of powerful, yet simple, ways to break down these myths, and give their kids in piano an informed, positive vision for their success. That's why I've written the Piano Bears Musical Storybooks for parents to read with their children.
These wonderfully illustrated books tell the story of Little Bear who is just starting to take piano lessons, and Mrs. Treble Beary, his piano teacher. The adventures of Little Bear and his friends and family will help your child in piano
Overcome their natural worries about piano lessons;
Develop good practice habits;
Learn patience and persistence with their learning;
Set goals and work to achieve them; and
Triumph over their fears.
Literature is a powerful tool for giving new perspective or changing limited perspectives that can hold children back. So take advantage of these beautifully illustrated stories that will inspire, encourage, inform and empower your child to achieve their musical dreams.
Best regards for your child's musical success,
Cynthia Marie VanLandingham
Piano Bears Musical Storybooks
Little Bear's Musical Garden
Little Bear's Piano Goals
See My Books at Borders & Amazon.com
Children Love My Piano Bears Storybooks!
Parents know that piano lessons are valuable for children. Piano lessons encourage creative thinking, improve reading and math scores, and improve overall educational progress. But how can you inspire your child to pursue their musical talent? With my Piano Bears Music Education Resources for young piano students. Don't wait to give your child the gift of music today!
