Excerpts, paraphrases, and just plain stolen material from the Suzuki Institute of Dallas’ website at www.suzukidallas.com and the Louisville Suzuki Piano website at www.suzukipiano.com.

 

The triangular relationship between the teacher, student and parent is fundamental to any Suzuki-based program (see The Suzuki Program at www.actx.edu). The active role of the parent is key to the success of the child, even as the every day pressures of life tend to cause us to become less philosophical and more survival-oriented. A significant aspect of Suzuki Method (and life) is renewing our vows to be the best role models we can be for our children and students.

   

 

Parents are responsible for the following:

• Maintaining consistent attendance at all lessons, including group lessons, play-ins and any other recommended activities.
   
• Supervision of their child’s daily practice and daily listening.  Obtaining a proper size and quality instrument for their child, as well as other equipment and supplies deemed necessary by the teacher.
    
• Parents are encouraged to re-read Dr. Suzuki’s Nurtured by Love. Other recommended readings include Ability Development from Age Zero also by Dr. Suzuki, William and Constance Starr’s To Learn with Love and Dr. Kataoka’s Sensibility and Education.  Pursuing continuing education through workshops, appropriate parent education meetings and group discussions.
    
• Constant supervision of their children while involved in Suzuki activities.
  
• Attend private lessons with their child to observe, take notes, and provide silent support.
   
• Listen to their child with praise, remembering what a wonderful gift it is to share time, effort and accomplishment.

Dr. Suzuki wrote, "The fate of the child is in the hands of the parent."