Once the language becomes ingrained into a person's communication behavior, then the study of grammar, spelling, etc. makes sense. On the other hand, adults learning a second language generally study vocabulary lists, rules of grammar, etc. before they have a 'natural' feel of the language. Dr. Suzuki theorized that music is just another language, and devised a teaching method that mimics the 'natural' process of learning a language. His method first teaches stage presence, then how to hold or position the instrument. Then single notes, simple rhythms, then 'Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star'.
Students learn by listening to a teacher and a recording, then imitating it.
This is sometimes called the 'mother tongue' approach. Suzuki also stresses that especially for young children, they must have at least one lesson per day. This usually means one lesson per week from the teacher, and six from a parent. So a parent must participate in the lessons, as well as work with the child daily. Another important aspect of the Suzuki method is to make learning fun.