Part 1: So you want your kids to take piano lessons

When my kids were young, I decided I wanted them all to play the piano.  I had read all kinds of articles about the benefits of music lessons for children.

https://www.mic.com/articles/110628/13-scientific-studies-prove-music-lessons-were-the-best-thing-your-parents-did-for-you

When my oldest daughter was 8 years old, I had just had my 4th child.  Life was crazy. But I was determined to have her start lessons.  I started asking around the neighborhood, and heard about a local piano teacher.  We started lessons with her, and after 6 months, we went to our first recital.  Let's say I was not impressed.  Most of the kids took their music up to the piano, and most did not play very well (including my daughter and her very simple song).  I was not expecting little concert pianists, but I felt like maybe this teacher was not the most qualified.   

I contacted our local music federation, and got a few names of teachers in my area.  I interviewed 2 of them. I asked them both if they required that a parent practice with the child.  The first teacher said no, that the child would be equipped with everything they needed at their lesson to do their practicing.  

The 2nd teacher said she highly recommended that a parent be actively involved in lessons and piano practicing.  She referred me to her teaching policy which stated:

A child's musical success depends upon three key people: the teacher, the student, and the parent. Without question, the greatest single factor in a student's success in piano lessons is parental involvement. As much as I wish I had a magic wand to turn all my students into great pianists, 30 or 45 minutes a week with me just will NOT do the trick! Children whose parents sit in on lessons and are actively involved in daily practice sessions consistently make faster progress, perform at a higher quality, and enjoy music much more. Parents don't necessarily need to play the piano themselves; they just need to ensure that their children practice correctly and follow my instructions. Parental involvement, especially at the early level, creates such a vital foundation for future success.

I asked for references from a few parents.  After receiving glowing reviews about this teacher who was talented, good with kids, and dedicated, I made my decision.  I had found our teacher!

PT 2:  Starting with a new teacher.