Free play

I love the structure of my son's Kindergarten class. Each day during work time the teacher divides the classroom up into sections: 2 sections are "must do jobs" that include practice on a skill that they just learned, and the other stations are labeled "free play." The children have to sign in and do their must jobs before the free play. I decided to incorporate this concept into our practicing. We spend the first 10-15 minutes (depending on child and level) on "must play" which is their practice sheet from their teacher. I then walk away from the instrument, sit on the couch and listen to them "free play." Free play is not only fun but it allows them to explore their creative side.