5 Ways to Make Practice Fun for Kids and Teens

May 5, 2025

Practicing music can sometimes feel like a chore, especially for kids and teens. However, making practice time enjoyable can help build a lifelong love for music. At Music Royale, your friendly neighborhood music store, we understand the importance of keeping practice engaging and productive. Here are five creative ways to make music practice fun for your young musicians.

1. Reward Charts: Motivation Through Positive Reinforcement

Reward systems can turn practice time into a fun and rewarding experience.

• Small Rewards First: Start with simple incentives like stickers or snacks. As practice becomes consistent, offer more substantial rewards like new sheet music or a special treat.

• Time-Based Rewards: Focus rewards on consistent practice time rather than achievements. This helps students build good habits without feeling pressure to perfect a piece.

Looking for sheet music to reward your child? Explore our selection in store!

2. Make Practice a Game

Games can transform practice sessions into fun challenges.

• Practice and Then Show Me: Your child practices a section and performs it for you.

• Teach Me Now!: Let your child teach you what they’ve learned—it’s a great way to reinforce skills.

• Simon Says: Incorporate musical commands like “Simon says, play this song slowly” or “Simon says, play the first line loud.”

Music lessons should be as fun as they are educational. Learn more about our personalized approach to teaching: Learn About Lessons.

3. Set Goals and Keep Motivation High

Goals can make practice feel purposeful, but it’s important to set achievable and motivating targets.

• Per-Session Goals: Instead of focusing on mastering a song by a deadline, set small, manageable goals for each practice session.

• Tackling Tough Songs: Encourage your child to work through songs they dislike. Completing them builds perseverance and discipline.

Our instructors can help your child set realistic goals and stay motivated. Meet Our Teachers.

4. Imitation: Set an Example

Your child looks up to you, so why not make practice a shared experience?

• Work Alongside Them: Pick a skill to develop for yourself, whether it’s learning an instrument or a completely unrelated skill.

• Set a Timer: Dedicate 20 minutes where you both focus on your individual tasks. Your child will see your dedication and feel motivated to mirror it.

Want to learn an instrument with your child? We offer lessons for all ages. Contact Us Today.

5. Use Videos for Inspiration

Watching others play the same instrument can inspire kids and teens to practice.

• Find Role Models: Look for videos of musicians playing your child’s favorite songs or using the same instrument.

• Show Progress: Recording your child’s performances can be a great way for them to see their growth over time.

Need help finding the right instrument to match your child’s musical inspirations? Visit Music Royale to explore our inventory and lessons.

Make Practice Time Memorable

At Music Royale, we’re passionate about helping kids and teens discover the joy of music. By incorporating these strategies into your child’s practice routine, you can help them stay motivated, engaged, and excited to learn.

Ready to start or enhance your child’s music education? Reach Out Today to connect with our expert instructors and find out why we’ve been Powell’s go-to music education destination for over 20 years.