Discussions of sustainable music careers have offered valuable insights into the professional, institutional, and social conditions that shape musicians’ working lives. Yet sustaining a musical life also relies on the psychological and learning capacities that enable musicians to adapt, stay motivated, and overcome challenges (López-Íñiguez & Bennett, 2020; MacNamara et al., 2006). This presentation focuses on the early development of self-regulated learning (SRL) in children’s instrumental practice as the foundation of a lifespan perspective on musicians. Drawing on survey data from 41 parent-child dyads, the study examines how behavioural, cognitive/intellectual, and personal forms of parental support are related to children’s self-regulatory practice behaviours, such as self-efficacy, effective practice, and reflection. Findings suggest that parental support for structured environments, scaffolding, and addressing psychological needs helps children develop confidence, motivation, and effective learning habits. These findings not only illustrate how SRL develops within relational contexts of guidance and shared reflection but also suggest a microcosm of how communities and institutions can support musicians by building reflective, relational cultures of learning. While the study does not follow participants into their professional lives, it sheds light on the learning and psychological capacities that later research recognises as foundational to sustaining creative engagement and career resilience. Positioning SRL as a foundation for adaptability and reflective growth, the presentation argues that sustainable careers begin with the ability to sustain learning itself. By reimagining SRL as both a personal and communal capacity, educators and institutions can foster learning environments. In doing so, we can bridge discussions of career sustainability with the developmental and relational processes that make such sustainability possible, helping musicians not only to survive, but to thrive in their creative lives.