If you run out of money for retirement, it's because you didn't make enough deposits.
It doesn't matter that life got busy. It doesn't matter that you couldn't find the time. It doesn't matter that other things seemed more important.
You didn't make enough deposits. And now you have no money.
It's the same with practicing music. Or practicing anything, for that matter. Fitness, health, even relaxing...it's all practice.
Except instead of depositing money, we're talking about depositing time.
When a student's progress is slow or it stops altogether, it's almost always because the practice deposits have been missing. And it's exceedingly rare that a student with a well-funded practice balance quits.
And so, if you or your kids are practicing something and it doesn't seem to be working, look at your statements. Are you making the practice deposits?
If not, look at the projected weeks ahead and schedule the time. If anyone tries to intrude on that time, tell them you're busy. You'll be spending that time making a deposit.
When in doubt, just remember that the compound growth over the years will be well worth the investment of time in yourself and your kids.