This week I had a second class with a new student at Ernestine's. It takes time to get to know new students and figure out what they like, and what kinds of activities they like to keep them engaged. I also had a lesson with an existing student that helped to remind me that even after you move past the get to know you period, there are still new things to learn about your students' likes and dislikes. What once interested them might not hold their attention today due to many different factors that are most likely out of your control. Sometimes it is just best to hold space for that student to feel their feelings and let them be known whether they are happy or sad. A reminder to always be equipped, with a joke to tell, a video to share, or a game to play. And sometimes it's best if these are not music related!