Want more ease, peace, and fun during piano practice? Tired of yelling, arguing, or bribing? Discover the joy that comes from understanding your child’s perspective.
At a past Let's Play Music symposium, teachers explored Carol Tuttle’s The Child Whisperer, which helps adults connect with children by honoring their true nature.
The 4 Types
Tuttle identifies 4 Types based on inherent natures (not personalities). While all children have all types, one is dominant.
Here’s a brief summary:
Type 1: Fun-loving, social, spontaneous.
Type 2: Thoughtful, emotional, in-touch with feelings.
Type 3: Physical, active, energetic, loves challenges.
Type 4: Intellectual, eff0/icient, exact, analytical.
To discover your child's dominant type, read The Child Whisperer for more insights.
Type 1: Practice Must be Fun
The fun-loving child thrives on fun during practice! She’ll enjoy imaginative games, high fives, and playing duets with a parent. Short bursts of spontaneous practice work best, and she loves to perform for an audience. When composing, she’ll have many ideas and need validation before narrowing them down. If your relationship feels strained, add more laughter and support. She’ll stay connected to music if it’s fun and playful.
Type 2: I Know Exactly What to Do
Your Type 2 child is a planner, focusing on details and goals. She’ll want to discuss practice plans, set weekly goals, and stick to a structured routine. She appreciates encouragement and emotional connection. During composing, she thrives with clear expectations. If she’s upset, she may need to talk through her feelings. She has the patience for steady progress, and clear communication is key.
Type 3: I Can Do This!
The self-motivated Type 3 child loves challenges and achieving results. He enjoys documenting his progress and setting goals like perfect practice records. If he struggles, remind him of past successes to boost confidence. This child is likely to request advanced music and has the drive to learn it. Celebrate his accomplishments, and let him pursue other interests when needed, as he’ll return to music with enthusiasm.
Type 4: This is Serious Business
Your Type 4 child values respect and wants to be taken seriously. She enjoys problem-solving and refining her music. She may become frustrated if progress isn’t quick or perfect, so reassure her that struggles are part of learning. Give her space to work on her own, but ask if she wants help. She may be drawn to the theory and logic of music and appreciates understanding how lessons benefit her brain and school success. Keep her involved in planning, and she’ll thrive.
Let's Play Music!
As you head to class and practice, keep your child’s needs and perspective in mind. Each child learns music differently, so respect their nature while guiding them. This is a special time to foster a love for music and bond with your child.
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