As private guitar teachers who work with beginner students every day, we know that progress doesn’t just happen during lessons—it happens at home. Once your weekly session wraps up, knowing what to do after guitar lessons is key to steady improvement and long-term enjoyment.
Parents often ask us, “What should my child be doing between lessons?” or “How can I help my child stay on track?” Don’t worry—you don’t have to be a musician to support your child’s learning. With a little structure, a simple plan, and the right encouragement, students can build great habits outside the lesson room.
Why What Happens After the Lesson Matters
Learning guitar is just like learning a language—you need frequent, focused practice to grow. Lessons introduce new material, but regular review at home helps students:
- Reinforce new concepts
- Build finger strength and muscle memory
- Improve accuracy and tone
- Stay motivated by tracking progress
Even 15–20 minutes of mindful practice a day can make a huge difference.
What Beginners Should Do After Guitar Lessons
Here’s a simple checklist we give to our beginner students:
1. Review Your Lesson Notes
Look over what your teacher assigned. Whether it’s chord changes, a new song, or a technique—make sure you understand what to practice.
2. Warm Up First
Start with finger stretches or easy scales. This sets the tone and prevents injury.
3. Focus on One Goal at a Time
Instead of playing everything at once, target small sections. Try looping one tricky chord change or refining a melody line.
4. Use Tools Wisely
A metronome builds rhythm, while a tuner ensures you’re always playing in tune. Many free apps work great for beginners.
5. Track Your Progress
Keep a practice log or journal. Jotting down what went well—and what needs work—helps build awareness and consistency.
Encouragement Makes All the Difference
Support from parents and caregivers goes a long way. Here’s how you can help even if you don’t play an instrument:
- Celebrate small wins (like nailing a chord!)
- Set a regular practice time that works for your family
- Ask your child to perform for you—it builds confidence
Looking for more beginner guidance? Our blog on what to expect at your first guitar lesson is a great place to start.
For additional insight into motivation and habits, this article on practice strategies from Berklee is a helpful read.
FAQ: After Guitar Lessons
Q: How often should a beginner practice guitar?
We recommend 15–20 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week. Consistency is more important than long practice sessions.
Q: What should I practice first?
Start with warm-ups, then focus on what your teacher assigned. Prioritize accuracy over speed.
Q: Is it okay to play songs outside of the assignment?
Yes! Exploring songs you love keeps things fun. Just make sure you still cover your lesson material.
