Managing practice in a full schedule

If you're a parent trying to support your child’s musical journey while juggling a packed calendar of school, sports, homework, and everything in between—you’re not alone. I'm Eliza Bourgault, founder of Music Makers Academy in Joondalup, and today we’re diving into a topic I see time and time again: how to make music practice work in a busy household.

This blog is based on Episode 21 of the Raising Musos podcast. Let’s get into it.

Why Practice Often Falls Away

Children today are busier than ever. They’re enrolled in multiple activities, clubs, sports, and (of course) school. So when music practice doesn’t happen, it’s rarely because a child is lazy—it’s often because the day is just too full. Unfortunately, that lack of practice can quickly lead to frustration and even quitting lessons altogether.

But with some simple shifts in mindset and routine, practice can be sustainable—even joyful.

1. Redefine What Practice Looks Like

Many parents think music practice has to mean 30 minutes a day, five days a week. But that’s not realistic for every child. And honestly? Ten minutes of focused practice is better than zero minutes of guilt-ridden avoidance.

Set a more achievable goal—like 10 minutes a day—and notice how much more consistent practice becomes. Short sessions often result in better focus and long-term engagement.

2. Focus on Quality, Not Just Quantity

It’s not just how long your child practices—it’s how they practice. Two ways to improve this:

• Target the tricky bits. If your child always starts from the beginning of a song, they’re probably over-practicing what they already know and avoiding what needs attention.

• Use effective strategies. If your child is an aural learner, have them listen to the piece before practicing. If they’re visual, maybe color-coding tricky sections helps.

When children know what they’re working on and how to approach it, practice becomes more efficient—and more rewarding.

3. Loosely Schedule Practice Into Your Week

Don’t overthink this. Instead of trying to schedule practice down to the minute, just attach it to existing routines:

• After school, before homework

• Right after breakfast

• Just before brushing teeth at night

If it’s “in the day,” it’s more likely to happen. A loose structure helps normalize practice as part of the routine.

4. Make Instruments Easy to Access

Don’t underestimate the power of visibility and convenience:

• Keep guitars out on stands.

• Leave keyboards plugged in with a chair ready.

• Assemble flutes in advance when possible.

The fewer barriers between your child and their instrument, the more likely they’ll play.

5. Be Involved (But Not Controlling)

Your presence matters. Sit with your child during practice sometimes. Ask questions like:

• "What did your teacher ask you to focus on this week?"

• "Can you show me the part you’re working to improve?"

• "How are you practicing that section differently today?"

This builds accountability and reminds your child they’re not alone in their learning.

6. Use Weekends and Holidays Wisely

If weekdays are too packed, lean on weekends and school breaks:

• Try multiple short bursts of practice throughout the day (e.g., 10 minutes after breakfast, 10 minutes after lunch).

• Use practice as a mental break from academic tasks.

This approach is often more effective for memory retention and helps build long-term habits.

7. Stay Flexible—But Stay Committed

It’s okay if practice doesn’t happen every day. Life happens. What matters is that you stay committed to making space for music where you can.

Some weeks will be better than others. The goal is consistency over perfection.

8. Reassess Your Expectations

If practice is limited, progress will be slower—and that’s okay. Don’t confuse slow progress with lack of talent. It may simply reflect the amount of time available.

Also, be realistic about commitment. Children who don’t practice may start to disengage from lessons—not because they don’t love music, but because they’re not progressing.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, you make time for what you value. If music truly matters to your family, there is a way to make space for it—even in a packed week.

Remember: your child doesn’t need hours of practice. What they need is regular, focused effort—and your gentle support.

Thanks for reading. If you try any of these tips at home, I’d love to hear how they go! Leave a comment below or connect with me on Instagram @musicmakersacademy.

Until next time,
Eliza ✨