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Musical Instruments for Kids and How to Help Them Choose

Written by Dan Cropper on . Posted in Music 101.

Incorporating music into your child’s life is not just about learning notes and melodies; it’s about fostering creativity, building confidence, and enhancing useful skills in all avenues of life. However, selecting the right instrument can be a bit overwhelming, especially for an indecisive child and inexperienced parent. Fear not! We’ve got some fantastic tips to guide you through this process.

Choosing the Right Instruments for Kids | Understanding Your Child’s Ability/Personality

Most parents understand their child’s personality; raising them from infancy does this! The key to helping kids choose the right instrument is to best match their personality, dexterity, and physical abilities to an instrument that won’t leave them wanting to quit because it’s too difficult to play. 

Simply put, some instruments are better suited for kids starting their music-learning journey than others. We wouldn’t start a 5-year-old with a bassoon simply because they like the shape, right? It is possible to suggest instruments to children that match their abilities and personalities without simply instructing them on what to play. 

For example, Is your little one full of energy and zest? Percussion could be the perfect fit. Get that energy out while learning the foundational skills of keeping a beat! For the more contemplative souls, the gentle strumming of a loog guitar or the serene keys of a piano might resonate better! 

Great Instruments to Start With:

The Loog Guitar – we’re big fans of the Loog Guitar at Jammin With You. With three strings instead of the traditional six, the loog is a simplified string experience that is approachable, engaging, and fun for young learners! Because of its smaller size and lightweight construction, kids are more comfortable holding the instrument, which can be a barrier for full-sized guitars for young kids. 

Percussive Instruments—If your little one is excited about playing a drumset, it’s usually best to start with smaller, less complex percussion instruments, such as a solo snare drum, bongos, tambourines, or even maracas. Because of noise levels and spatial constraints, drumsets typically need their own dedicated room, so before jumping headfirst into a full set, understand if your child takes to liking percussion fundamentals.

Piano—Unlike any other instrument, the piano has the unique ability to visually represent music theory in a straightforward manner that young children can understand/absorb. Core musical concepts, like melody, harmony, and rhythm, are laid out in front of the child linearly, with keys at their fingertips; this is why children will start the piano even as young as four years old. 

Exploring Long-Term Opportunities

Sit down with your child and explore the long-term opportunities associated with each instrument. From joining orchestras to forming bands, playing an instrument opens doors to exciting adventures. By envisioning the future together, you can help your child see the boundless potential awaiting them on their musical journey!

Of course, you can always ask our talented team of instructors for advice on where to start with your child. 

Contact us with any questions.

Private Piano Lessons for My Child – How Will I Know They’re Ready?

Written by Dan Cropper on . Posted in Music 101, Piano.

Are you curious when to introduce your little ones to the piano and get them interested in piano lessons? Music classes for kids, such as piano lessons, can be incredibly rewarding for parents and children, but starting at the right age is essential for long-term success. 

In this article, we’ll explore what age to start piano lessons and why the piano can be a great tool to boost their confidence and help them feel good about themselves. Let’s dive into this fun and fulfilling hobby that can resonate throughout their entire lives!

Private Piano Lessons: The Ideal Age to Start 

Introducing kids to music is all about finding that sweet spot – when you can nurture an inherent interest and not force lessons on your child. But at what age do you start piano lessons? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, experts suggest that children as young as three to six can start their musical journey; this is when they are most receptive to starting private music lessons and learning new skills.

  • Dexterity and Reading Skills

One aspect to consider is your child’s attention span and dexterity, as younger kids may have shorter attention spans, making shorter, more frequent lessons a great option. Piano lessons will help improve their dexterity, but there’s a level of dexterity they’ll need to begin lessons. Their dexterity will improve daily as they learn to coordinate their fingers to produce beautiful melodies. 

You might be surprised at how quickly kids learn music reading skills; reading sheet music enhances their literacy skills and helps them develop a deeper understanding of patterns, rhythm, and timing. It’s like giving them a secret code to unlock the language of music! It can be intimidating at first, but once it begins to click, kids have a fantastic ability to learn the music language quickly. 

  • Comfortability with Instructors

Feeling comfortable with their piano instructor is essential for your child’s musical journey. Children often thrive when they have a supportive and encouraging teacher. Look for instructors specializing in teaching kids music lessons and creating a friendly and nurturing learning environment. 

Your child’s comfort and trust in their teacher can make a world of difference in their progress; this is the philosophy we embrace at Jammin With You: learning music must be driven by enjoyment, not fear. 

Private Piano Lessons for My Child – A Lifetime of Benefits

Starting piano lessons at the right age introduces your child to the world of music and instills important life skills. They learn discipline, patience, and perseverance while enjoying a fun and creative activity. As they progress, the sense of accomplishment and pride will boost their confidence and help them feel good about themselves.

The ideal age to start piano lessons is flexible, but the key is to tap into their curiosity and enthusiasm at a young age. With the right guidance, your child can embark on a journey that will resonate throughout their lives. So, why wait? Get those little fingers tapping on the keys, and let the music begin!

Reach out to us today