Hey parents! You probably know by now that music lessons provide a multitude of benefits for your child’s development.
If this comes as news to you, let us reiterate what we (and scientists) have said many times before: playing music helps develop or improve a variety of skills, ranging from social and academic to emotional and psychological.
Now, the question you may be asking yourself is: “What is the best instrument for my child?”
Before we answer, let us say that our recommendations below are subjective, in a sense that what’s great for one child may not be the best choice for another.
These are general guidelines, based on our own experience, as well as that of music teachers and child development experts.
Okay, having said that, the answer depends on factors such as the child’s age, the length and agility of fingers and legs, fine motor skills, and whether he or she is able to cope with the mechanics of the instrument.
So that leaves us with smaller, more manageable instruments.
For kids eight years of age and older, the five instruments that are easiest to learn and handle:
All of these instruments are more compatible with a child’s body; they are easy to learn and (except for the piano) to carry.
The bottom line is this: let your kids play what they want to play. There is no such thing as a “bad” instrument!
But whatever the age and instruments, remember that in order for the lessons to be truly beneficial, children need an excellent teacher to guide and mentor them on their musical journey.
