The first important communication between parent, student and teacher is the interview. This is a time for mutual sharing of ideas: hopes, expectations, policies, fees, etc. and for clarifying any questions and concerns. Musical and social benefits of registering for the music class will be outlined by the teacher as well as expectations of the parent and child in order for them to succeed. Parents and children need to feel they can share their comments, questions and concerns with their teacher and have teachers answer them clearly with accuracy. In short, trust in the teacher/parent/music student relationship begins to develop through good, open communication.
One important factor of success in a music program is having a good relationship with the teacher and three-way communication between your child, you and the music teacher is essential. You and your child dream of success and musical achievement. The music teacher is also eager for your child to succeed at music and will work hard to achieve that goal. However, the only way to success is through good communication between teacher, parent and student.
Every week your teacher will print out a homework sheet for you to copy so that the assignment and concepts for the coming week are clearly understood. The music teacher will explain each concept in class and usually include an activity to help children and parents grasp it. If, after a parent copies down the homework, hears the explanation in class and participates in the activity geared to help learn the concept, he/she still does not understand it, it is important for her/him to ask the teacher to clarify points he/she does not understand when they are discussed in class. A good relationship with the teacher will greatly increase your comfort in asking for clarification and will benefit all parties. The basis of this good relationship is good communication.
Music for Young Children teachers care very much about your child’s success in music and are always eager to communicate with you toward that end. We hope you will take time to contact us at the first appearance of a concern or question so that every child and parent will be successful in Music for Young Children classes. That is our goal and we will strive to achieve it!
Elizabeth Dettweiler
Teacher of Music for Young Children
https://www.myc.com/members/edettweiler/