A major concept of the Suzuki Method is that a child's ability can be nurtured by immersion in an inspiring total environment -- physical, aesthetic, interpersonal. Rather than putting primary emphasis on talk-teaching, Suzuki teachers and families are encouraged to draw forth ability through a child's consistent exposure to excellent models in an environment which fosters learning.

Take the Kemp Home Practice Environment Scale to discover how your child's home practice environment measures up. For each statement, circle the most honest response:

N = Never.         S = Sometimes.          R = Regularly. 

1. I assist my child in home practice.                                                                                                 N.  S.  R.
2. I play my child's Suzuki recording or CD.                                                                                      N.  S.  R.
3. I make sure prior to the start of the home lesson that all needed supplies are available: printed music, notes from the studio lesson, recordings, metronome, etc.                                                                                                                                 N.  S.  R.
4. I concentrate my efforts at home on the main teaching points from the lesson.                    N.  S.  R.
5. I arrange a quiet, distraction-free environment during home practice.                                    N.  S.  R.
6. I maintain a "calm center" when I am home teacher, even if I've had a rough day myself.    N.  S.  R.
7. I emphasize positives in my child's practice.                                                                                  N.  S.  R.
8. When I correct in home practice, I do so descriptively, not judgementally.                              N.  S.  R.
9. I look forward to practicing with my child and communicate my pleasure.                              N.  S.  R.
10. I continue to learn and strive for excellence.                                                                                 N.  S.  R.

                             Scoring   N= 0, S= 1, R= 2

(Add your points for your total score.)