While your child is probably excited about the idea of taking music lessons, it is sometimes difficult to keep children motivated after those first few weeks of lessons. After all, there is a good amount of work involved in learning how to play any instrument, and sometimes this work can be monotonous for kids. Here are a few tips that might help make your child's music lesson experience a success.

The choice of instrument is of major importance, and while your child definitely should have big input into this decision, some instruments are better than others for first timers. Pianos and stringed instruments are excellent choices, as well as smaller band instruments such as clarinets and flutes. The saxophone is another instrument that many children enjoy learning. Don't forget to think outside the box and consider instruments such as the guitar or the drums, which can be a lot of fun to learn and play. In the end, if you select an instrument that your child is excited about, you are more likely to have success.

For millions of children, their first experience with music lessons begins in elementary school and this can be a great first experience. However, some children need extra attention in order to achieve success, and others tend to be uninspired by the songs selected for performance as these are generally pieces that suit a whole band or orchestra rather than a specific instrument. Private lessons can be an excellent complement to school instruction. After all, your child will learn more quickly and have greater confidence with private music lessons, and that can make the entire experience far more enjoyable.

Private music lessons at a music school in Dana Point, a music school in San Clemente or a music school in Laguna Niguel also can be helpful because your child might be able to select music that he or she likes as opposed to what the music teacher at school selects for the group. Private music classes also are a good idea if you wish to learn how to play an instrument such as the piano, the keyboard or any type of guitar, as these typically are not available at a public or private school.

When selecting a music instructor or music school, be sure to introduce your child to the teacher and take a tour of the music school. Music lessons should be something your child enjoys, so make sure there is a good rapport between teacher and student. Some schools, such as Los Rios Rock School in San Juan Capistrano, even offer an actual rock band experience for students as well as the typical private lesson. The tuition includes an hour-long weekly lesson as well as Saturday band rehearsals and live shows at popular local venues.

Of course, in order to become a good musician, children must practice and this certainly can feel more like a chore than something fun. Providing plenty of praise and encouragement can help. Make practice time a mini concert and be sure to give lots of praise for a job well done. Try to focus on elements of success before giving constructive criticism. Rather than opting for long practices two or three days per week, set aside 10 minutes each day for a quick practice concert. Remember, while you want your child to learn discipline, you also want them to have fun so make practice time as pleasant as possible.