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Childhood offers many learning opportunities, and it is the best time to introduce your child to a musical instrument. Children are, by nature, curious and imaginative, which naturally leads to learning how to play music when provided the means. Not only can learning to play music be a fun and positive experience for your child, but it also can help them develop critical skills that help them throughout their lives.
Studies show that playing musical instruments improves a child’s academic skills, cultivates social skills, and develops physical skills. If you want your child to learn how to read and play music, choosing the right instrument is vital to their success. To help them pick a musical instrument to learn, consider practical factors.
Your Child’s Age
Typically, for any child over the age of six, you can choose from various musical instruments. If you want to start a younger child on an instrument, the choices become more limited due to their physical size and capabilities. The piano is a good choice of musical instruments for children younger than six years old.
The piano provides a platform for your child to learn the foundation of reading and playing music. A child gains a visual representation of music by playing the piano that becomes the basis of musical theory.
Determine Your Child’s Body Structure
Specific musical instruments are more easily played by people with particular body types. Consider your child’s body structure when choosing an instrument that will be suitable for them to learn to play. For instance, a small child may find it more challenging to play large instruments such as a tuba or bassoon. Also, mouth sizes impact whether your child is more suited for a French horn or a trumpet.
Remember, body structure plays a vital role in the success of your child’s learning to play a musical instrument. You may want to consult with professional music teachers when considering specific instruments for your child to learn.
Play Music For Your Child To Determine Their Interests
Many children hear music and don’t understand what instruments are used to create the songs they enjoy. Exposure to various types of music can lead them to a greater understanding of instruments and their sounds. Listen to what musical sounds resonate with your child, and consider choosing instruments that make the sounds they gravitate towards.
Have your child listen to a range of musical styles from solos to ensembles and talk with them about the sounds they like. The more you make music a part of your child’s daily routine, the better chance you have at choosing the instrument that will bring them joy to learn.