Ideally, band students would practice 15 min./day, 5 days/week.  Realistically, I am quite happy if they accumulate 60 minutes each week in any combination.

Practicing is most beneficial when activities are repeated several sessions in a row.  Five 12-minute sessions are more beneficial than two 30-minute sessions.

It is helpful to refer to practice time as "playing time."  Instead of "You should practice now," perhaps try saying "You should play your instrument now."

Any playing is good! Of course they should work on their assigned music, but if they are interested in playing something else from our book or any other music, please encourage them!

Encourage your children to use the CDs/DVDs that came with the book--these make playing more fun and help the children know if they're on the right pitch.

Set up a play date (pun intended) with another band student.

If you know an older band student, see if your child can meet with the older student for some help or some fun.

If your child is comfortable, consider asking him/her to play a song for you at the end of each playing session (they might love playing one for you with the CD).

Consider private lessons.  These can be huge motivators, especially since I am rarely able to give the kids lengthy individual attention.

Try to keep all feedback positive.  Even jokes about how they sound can discourage them.  They may not appear to be super-sensitive, but even our fourth graders are developing that fragile pre-pubescent psyche.

Students should fill out a practice record each week. These are found in the back of the Extra Fun Band Book..  Parents should provide a signature, and these are checked weekly.