#musicmaking earlyeducation atwatervillage etiquette teatime piano

[rikomethod]

Why Etiquette Is Important to the RMSP

Those of you with children who have enjoyed my Little Tunes class know that I end every lesson with “Tea Time”. For most students, this is the most exciting part of our energetic music making experience. Children ages 3-5 sit politely in their chairs, with napkins neatly on their laps, while they sip tea out of nice china and nibble on delicious treats. They feel grown up and special, and they behave as such. Without realizing it, they are learning etiquette.

Etiquette is the most basic part of life. It helps young students get ready to pay attention. Etiquette is a set of rules. Children who understand these rules play the game better. And what kind of kids don’t like to play well? For this reason, they follow the rules.

Oh! Did I mention? Learning is just like playing games. It is not like a punishment where children have to memorize random factual matters. It’s fun and exciting and empowering.

I prefer that children remember their lessons as discovering, rather than receiving, information. They feel ownership of the music and the experience. It’s about them, and what they’ve uncovered. To me, that is a successful teaching experience.

Etiquette doesn’t need to be a burden. Some parents express concerns about depriving children of freedom. But there is a greater sense of security, control, and pride when rules are understood and applied. We let children know how to play the game. It’s a gift.