As a parent, you want nothing more than for your child to succeed and thrive. One way to set your child up for success is to provide them with the opportunity to learn a musical instrument, and the piano is a great choice. Not only is it a beautiful and versatile instrument, but learning the piano can also provide numerous cognitive and emotional benefits for children.

However, finding the right piano lessons for your child can be overwhelming. There are various teaching styles, methods, and options to consider, and you want to make sure you choose the best one for your child’s needs and goals.

This ultimate guide to piano lessons for kids aims to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision and help your child succeed in their piano journey. In this guide, we will cover the following topics:

The benefits of learning the piano for your kids

Choosing the right piano and teacher for your child.

Different piano teaching methods and styles.

Setting goals and expectations for your child’s piano journey

Proven tips for practicing the piano and staying motivated.

Common challenges in learning the piano and how to overcome them

Choosing the right repertoire and music for your child.

Let’s get started!

Table Of Contents

The Benefits Of Learning The Piano For Kids

Improved Cognitive Skills

Enhanced Creativity And Self-expression

Increased Focus And Attention

Improved Social Skills

Emotional Well-being

Choosing The Right Piano And Teacher For Your Child.

Choosing The Right Piano For Your Kids

Choosing The Right Teacher For Your Kid’s Piano Lessons

Experience And Qualifications

Teaching Style

Personality

Availability

Location

Cost

References

Trial Lessons

Goals

Adaptability

Different Piano Teaching Methods And Styles

Classical Approach

Suzuki Method

Eurhythmics Method

Improvisation-based Approach

Setting Goals And Expectations For Your Child’s Piano Journey

Start By Setting Short-term Goals

Encourage Your Child To Set Their Own Goals

Make Practice A Regular Part Of Your Child’s Routine

Celebrate Your Child’s Progress

Be Patient And Supportive

Proven Tips For Practicing The Piano And Staying Motivated

Set Specific Goals

Create a Practice Schedule

Find A Practice Partner

Mix Up Your Practice Routine

Celebrate Your Accomplishments

Seek Feedback And Support

Remember Why You Are Practicing

Some Common Challenges In Learning A Piano And How To Overcome Them

Lack Of Motivation

Difficulty With Hand Coordination

Struggling With Rhythm

Limited Practice Time

Difficulty With Sight-reading

Choosing The Right Repertoire And Music For Your Child’s Piano Lessons

Consider Your Child’s Interest

Consider Your Child’s Age And Level

Use A Variety Of Styles

Encourage Creativity

Incorporate Music Theory

Set achievable goals.

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can The Piano Be Self Taught?

Are Piano Lessons Expensive?

The Benefits Of Learning The Piano For Kids

In one of our articles; Children and Music: The Positive Effects Of Music On Child Development, we explained that music can provide numerous benefits for children, both cognitive and emotional. And learning the piano is no exception. In this section, we will explore some ways in which learning the piano can help your child grow and develop.

Here are how learning the piano can help for child’s cognitive and emotional development:

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Improved Cognitive Skills

Playing the piano requires coordination between the hands, fingers, and brain. It also involves reading music and understanding rhythm and pitch. These skills can help improve your child’s overall cognitive skills and ability to learn.

Enhanced Creativity And Self-expression

Playing the piano allows children to express themselves creatively through music. It can also help boost their confidence and self-esteem.

Increased Focus And Attention

A sheer amount of concentration and focus is required to play the piano. When your kids play the piano repeatedly or are learning to play the piano, this can help improve their attention span and ability to stay focused.

Improved Social Skills

If your child takes piano lessons with other children, they will have the opportunity to interact and collaborate with their peers. This can help improve their social skills and confidence.

Emotional Well-being

Learning the piano can provide a sense of accomplishment and pride, which can help boost your child’s emotional well-being. It can also be a therapeutic and relaxing activity, providing an outlet for stress and emotions.

Conclusively, learning the piano can provide numerous benefits for children, both cognitive and emotional. It can help improve their cognitive skills, focus, social skills, and emotional well-being.

Up next, we will consider what it takes to choose the right piano and teacher for your child.

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Choosing The Right Piano And Teacher For Your Child.

Once you have decided that your child wants to learn the piano or you want them to learn the piano, the next step is to choose the right piano and the teacher. Also in our last post on what musical instrument is best for a young child to learn, we talked at length about things to consider before getting a piano for your child.

However, for the sake of this post, we will look into these details afresh. Ready? Let’s go!

Choosing The Right Piano For Your Kids

If you are planning to invest in a piano for your child to practice on, there are a few things to consider. The size of the piano should be appropriate for your child’s age and height. A smaller piano may be more suitable for younger children, while older children may be able to play a full-size piano.

You should also consider the type of piano you want to purchase. An acoustic piano is a traditional option, but it requires regular maintenance and can be quite expensive. An electronic piano or keyboard may be a more cost-effective and convenient option, especially if you have limited space or do not want to worry about tuning and maintenance.

Choosing The Right Teacher For Your Kid’s Piano Lessons

Choosing the right teacher is crucial for your child’s success in piano lessons. There are a few things to consider when selecting a teacher. While it may be tempting to go with the cheapest or most convenient option, it is important to take the time to do your research and find a teacher who will be a good fit for your child and family. 

Below are some of the points to consider before choosing a piano teacher for your kid:

Experience And Qualifications

It is important to find a teacher who is experienced and qualified to teach piano. Look for someone who has a degree in music or education, or who has received formal training in piano teaching. It is also a good idea to ask about the teacher’s experience working with children and any additional training or certification they may have in child education or music therapy.

Teaching Style

Everyone has a different teaching style, and it is important to find one that works for your child. Some teachers may be more traditional and structured in their approach, while others may be more flexible and creative. Consider your child’s learning style and personality when choosing a teacher, and try to find someone who will be able to adapt their teaching style to your child’s needs.

Personality

A good teacher should be patient, kind, and encouraging, and should be able to create a positive learning environment for your child. Look for a teacher who can connect with your child and make learning fun and engaging.

Availability

Consider the availability of the teacher when choosing a piano instructor. Look for someone who has a schedule that works for your family and can accommodate your child’s other commitments. If you are looking for online lessons, make sure the teacher has a reliable internet connection and can provide high-quality audio and video.

Location

If you are looking for in-person lessons, consider the location of the teacher’s studio or home. Is it convenient for you to get to and from the lessons? If you are looking for online lessons, location becomes less of a concern, but it is still important to consider the time zones and make sure the teacher is available at a time that works for you and your child.

Cost

While cost is certainly a factor to consider when choosing a piano teacher, it should not be the only factor. It is important to find a balance between affordability and quality. Look for a teacher who charges a reasonable rate and who has a proven track record of producing successful students.

References

Do not be afraid to ask for references from the teacher or to talk to other parents whose children have taken lessons with the teacher. This can give you a good idea of the teacher’s reputation and how well they connect with their students.

Trial Lessons

Many teachers offer a trial lesson or consultation to give you and your child a chance to see if the teacher is a good fit. This can be a great opportunity to ask questions, get a feel for the teacher’s style, and see how your child responds to the lesson.

Goals

It is important to have clear goals in mind when choosing a piano teacher for your child. Do you want your child to learn to play for fun, or do you have a more specific goal in mind, such as preparing for an audition or competition? Make sure the teacher can help you and your child achieve these goals.

Adaptability

Finally, as your child grows and progresses, it is important to find a teacher who can adapt to their changing needs and abilities. Look for someone who can challenge your child and help them reach their full potential.

Another vital consideration is when you are scouting for teachers, at this stage we recommend doing any of the following to reach out to professional tutors for your kid’s piano lesson:

Make findings about music schools in your area. For example, if you live in Calgary or its environment,  Bow Lake Music School could be one of your considerations.

Another way to scout is to run an internet search for professional piano teachers in your area.

Enjoying the ride? Let’s consider different piano teaching methods and styles in the next section of this post.

Different Piano Teaching Methods And Styles

Piano teaching methods and styles are an important aspect of music education, as they can greatly impact a student’s learning experience and progress. There are many different approaches to teaching the piano. Each with its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular methods and styles, and discuss their strengths and limitations.

Ready? Let go!

Classical Approach

One of the most traditional methods of teaching the piano is the classical approach. This method is centered around the study of classical music and focuses on the development of technical skills, musicality, and theory. Students are typically taught to read music notation and to play with proper techniques, including correct posture and hand position. This method is often associated with more formal, structured lessons and may involve the use of classical repertoire, scales, and exercises.

One advantage of the classical approach is that it provides a strong foundation in music theory and technical skills, which can be beneficial for those interested in pursuing a career in music. It can also be a great way for students to develop an appreciation for classical music and its rich history. However, some students may find the classical approach to be too formal and rigid and may struggle to maintain motivation and engagement.

Suzuki Method

The Suzuki method is another popular teaching method. It was developed by Japanese violinist Shinichi Suzuki. The Suzuki method is based on the belief that all children can learn music, just as they learn to speak their native language. The method emphasizes the importance of listening and repetition and encourages students to learn by ear before attempting to read notation. Students also participate in group lessons and performances, which can be a fun and supportive learning environment.

The Suzuki method is often praised for its focus on early childhood development and its emphasis on building a love of music from a young age. It can be especially beneficial for young children, as it allows them to learn at their own pace and develop a strong sense of accomplishment. However, the Suzuki method may not be suitable for older students or those with more advanced musical goals, as it may not provide enough focus on technical skills and theory.

Eurhythmics Method

This is also known as the Dalcroze method. This is a teaching method that emphasizes the connection between music and physical movement. Students ate taught to use their bodies to express musical concepts, such as rhythm, melody, and phrasing. This method often involves a combination of listening, movement, and instrument play, and may involve the use of props and other visual aids.

The Dalcroze method can be an excellent way for students to develop their musical skills in a fun and engaging way. It can also be especially beneficial for students who may have difficulty sitting still or focusing for long periods. However, some students may find the physical aspect of the Dalcroze method to be overwhelming or distracting and may struggle to grasp the musical concepts being taught fully.

Improvisation-based Approach

Another popular method is the improvisation-based approach, which encourages students to explore and create their music, rather than following a strict set of rules or guidelines. Students may be taught to improvise melodies, play by ear, and experiment with different chord progressions and rhythms. This method is often associated with jazz, blues, and other genres that rely heavily on improvisation.

This approach can be an excellent way for students to develop their creativity and musical expression. It can also help students feel more connected to the music they are playing, as they can put their personal touch on it. However, some students may find it challenging to break away from traditional methods of learning and may need help to feel confident in their improvisational skills.

Ultimately, the most effective method will depend on the individual student and their needs and goals. It may be helpful for students to try out different techniques and styles to find what works best for them.

Another stop in this ultimate guide is to talk about how to set goals and expectations for your child’s piano journey. Let’s begin!

Setting Goals And Expectations For Your Child’s Piano Journey

This can be an important part of helping them develop a love for music and a sense of accomplishment as they progress. Some of the tips for setting goals and expectations for your child’s piano journey are listed below:

Start By Setting Short-term Goals

These can be small achievements that your child can work towards over a few weeks or months. For example., learning a new piece of music, improving sight-reading skills, or increasing finger dexterity.

Consider Your Child’s Interest And Abilities

It is important to set goals that are appropriate for your child’s age and skill level. Be open to adjusting your expectations as your child progresses and takes on more challenging material.

Encourage Your Child To Set Their Own Goals

Encourage your child to think about what they want to achieve on the piano. This will help them feel more invested in their musical journey and give them a sense of ownership over their progress.

Make Practice A Regular Part Of Your Child’s Routine

Consistent practice is the key to improving on the piano. Encourage your child to set aside a regular time each day to practice, and be supportive of their efforts by providing a quiet, distraction-free environment for them to work in.

Celebrate Your Child’s Progress

It is important to recognize and celebrate your child’s accomplishments, no matter how small. This will help them feel motivated and encourage them to continue working towards their goals.

Be Patient And Supportive

Learning the piano can be challenging at times, and it is important to be patient and supportive of your child’s efforts. Encourage them to persevere through difficult passages and celebrate their progress along the way.

By setting goals and expectations for your child’s piano journey, you can help them develop a love for music and a sense of accomplishment as they progress. With patience, support, and consistent practice, your child can achieve their musical goals and reach their full potential on the piano.

Another score we hope to settle in this post is how to help your kids stay motivated in their piano journey. We know that practicing the piano can be a challenging and rewarding journey, and it is not uncommon for students to struggle with staying motivated. This is something we deal with here at Bow Lake Music. Hence, we are writing to let you know some proven tips for practicing the piano and staying motivated.

Proven Tips For Practicing The Piano And Staying Motivated

Set Specific Goals

Setting specific goals is a great way to stay motivated while practicing the piano. This can be as simple as working towards a specific performance or completing a specific piece of music. Having a clear goal in mind will help you stay focused and motivated during practice sessions.

Create a Practice Schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to practicing the piano. Create a practice schedule that works for you, whether it is daily, a few times a week, or even just a few times a month. It is important to be realistic with your schedule, as you do not want to set yourself up for failure. Also, be sure to include breaks in your practice schedule to give your mind and body a chance to rest.

Find A Practice Partner

Having someone to practice with can be a great way to stay motivated. A practice partner can provide support, encouragement, and accountability during your practice sessions. This can be a fellow student, a friend, or even a teacher.

Mix Up Your Practice Routine

Doing the same thing over and over again can be monotonous and can lead to a lack of motivation. Mix up your practice routine by trying new pieces of music, incorporating different techniques or exercises, or even trying a new practice location.

Celebrate Your Accomplishments

It is important to recognize and celebrate your accomplishments along the way. Whether it is learning a new piece of music or mastering a difficult technique, be sure to take a moment to appreciate your progress. This will help you be motivated and excited about your journey as a pianist.

Seek Feedback And Support

Seeking feedback and support from a teacher or mentor can be a great way to stay motivated. A teacher can help identify areas for improvement and provide guidance on how to reach your goals. Additionally, having a supportive network of friends and family who encourage your musical journey can also keep you motivated.

Remember Why You Are Practicing

When motivation starts to wane, it can be helpful to remind yourself why you are practicing in the first place. Whether it is for personal enjoyment, to perform in front of an audience, or to improve your skills, remembering your motivation can help keep you on track.

In conclusion, practicing the piano and staying motivated requires setting specific goals, creating a consistent practice schedule, seeking feedback and support, and celebrating your accomplishments. Mixing up your practice routine and finding a practice partner can also help keep you motivated.

Also, there is a popular saying that nothing comes easy. This saying applies to learning a piano too. Up next, we will consider some common challenges in learning the piano and how to overcome them.

Some Common Challenges In Learning A Piano And How To Overcome Them

Learning to play the piano can be rewarding and enjoyable for children, but it can also present some challenges along the way. Here are some common challenges that children may encounter during piano lessons and some tips on how to overcome them

Lack Of Motivation

It is not strange for children to lose interest in activities that they difficult or not immediately enjoyable. To overcome this challenge, it is important to find ways to make piano practice fun and engaging. This might involve using interactive apps or games, finding music that your child enjoys, or incorporating other activities into practice sessions, such as singing or dancing.

Difficulty With Hand Coordination

Playing the piano requires coordination between the hands, which can be challenging for some children. To help improve hand coordination, it is helpful to start with simple melodies and gradually increase the level of difficulty as your child’s skills improve. It is also important to practice regularly and to be patient and encourage your child as they learn.

Struggling With Rhythm

Keeping a steady beat and rhythm is an important aspect of playing the piano, and it can be challenging for some children to grasp. To help improve rhythm skills, try clapping or tapping out rhythms together, or use rhythm instruments to help your child get a feel for the beat.

Limited Practice Time

Between school, extracurricular activities, and other commitments, it can be difficult for children to find time to practice the piano. To overcome this challenge, try to set aside regular practice time each day, even if it is just for a few minutes. It is also important to be flexible and to find ways to make the most of the time you do have, such as using interactive apps or games to make practice more engaging.

Difficulty With Sight-reading

Sight-reading, or the ability to read and play music notation, can be a challenge for many children, even for adults. To help improve sight-reading skills, try starting with simple melodies and gradually increasing the level of difficulty. It is also helpful to practice regularly and to break pieces down into smaller sections to focus on one at a time.

Overall, it is important to be patient and to encourage your child as they learn to play the piano. It is helpful to find ways to make practice fun and engaging, and to be flexible with practice times and goals as needed. With time and dedication, your child will develop the skills and confidence needed to excel at the piano.

Finally, another important factor in your child’s musical development and enjoyment of the instrument, the piano, is choosing the right repertoire and music for your child in piano lessons. Below are some tips to consider when selecting music for your child’s piano lessons:

Choosing The Right Repertoire And Music For Your Child’s Piano Lessons

Consider Your Child’s Interest

If your child has a particular interest in a particular type of music, it can be helpful to incorporate that into their piano lessons. This can help keep them motivated and engaged in their practice.

Consider Your Child’s Age And Level

It is important to choose music that is appropriate for your child’s age and skill level. If the music is too difficult, it can be frustrating for your child and may discourage them from practicing. On the other hand, if the music is too easy, it may not provide enough challenge to keep your child engaged.

Use A Variety Of Styles

It is important to expose your child to a variety of musical styles and genres to help broaden their musical knowledge and appreciation. This can include classical, pop, jazz, rock, and more.

Encourage Creativity

While it is important to teach your child the technical skills needed to play the piano. It is also important to encourage their creativity and expression through music. Encourage them to improvise and create their pieces of music.

Incorporate Music Theory

In addition to learning to play specific pieces of music, it is okay to incorporate music theory concepts into your child’s piano lessons. This can include learning the rhythm, melody, harmony, and form.

Set achievable goals.

It is essential to set achievable goals for your child’s piano lessons to keep them motivated and engaged. This can include working towards a specific performance or achieving a certain skill level.

Conclusively, the most important thing is to choose music that your child will enjoy and that will help them develop their skills and appreciation for music. By considering your child’s interests, age, and skill level and incorporating a variety of styles and music theory concepts, you can help your child have a positive and rewarding experience in their piano lessons.

Conclusion

Piano lessons can be enriching experiences for kids. By choosing the right instructor, setting realistic goals, making practice fun, and staying positive and supportive, you can help your child get the most out of their lessons and enjoy the benefits of learning to play the piano.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can The Piano Be Self Taught?

Yes, it is possible to teach yourself to Plano. Some people may have a natural aptitude for music and be able to learn on their own, while others may need more guidance and structure. Here are a few tips to  help you get started:

1. Set goals for yourself: Decide what you want to achieve as a pianist and create a plan to get there.
2. Find a good beginner’s piano book or online course: There are many resources available that can help you learn the basics of playing the piano.
3. Practice regularly: Set aside time each day to practice, even if it is just a few minutes. Consistent practice is the key to making progress.
4. Start with the basics: Focus on learning proper hand position and finger placement, as well as basic rhythms and melodies.
5. Be patient with yourself: Learning to play the piano takes time and dedication. Do not get discouraged if you do not see progress right away – just keep practicing and you will improve.

It may also be helpful to find a local music teacher or take online lessons to get more personalized instruction and guidance. Bow lake music is a good place to look. Good luck on your musical journey!

Are Piano Lessons Expensive?

The cost of piano lessons can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the teacher’s experience, and qualifications, the length of the lesson, and the frequency of lessons. In general, private piano lessons tend to be more expensive than group lessons, and lessons with more experience and highly qualified teachers may also be more expensive. Prices can also vary depending on the type of piano instruction being offered, such as classical, jazz, or popular music.

In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 or more per hour for private piano lessons, depending on the factors mentioned above. Group lessons may be less expensive, typically costing anywhere from $10 to $50 per hour per student. Some teachers may also offer discounts for multiple lessons purchased at one time or a package of lessons paid in advance.

In addition, you can try out our services at Bow lake music as we only charge $25-30 per lesson.

It is important to keep in mind that the cost of piano lessons should not be the only factor you consider when choosing a teacher. It is also important to consider the teacher’s qualifications and experience, as well as their teaching style and whether it is a good fit for your learning needs and goals.

Photo by Bow lake Music

In our recent post on the benefits of music for a child’s development, we discussed how research from multiple studies showed that young children who had access to musical instrument instruction performed better on math tests and scored higher on the SAT than those who did not. This is demonstrated by the fact that learning a musical instrument stimulates a mental route for logic.

You can cut down on the time you would otherwise spend debating which musical instrument would be ideal for your young child to learn. We will start by defining musical instruments before talking about some of the greatest instruments for your young child to be familiar with right away. To assist you in making a decision that fits within your budget, we will go over some of the basic characteristics of these instruments and provide some Amazon pricing.

Table of Content

Table of Content

What Are Musical Instruments?

Types Of Musical Instruments

Percussion Instruments

Wind Instruments

String Instruments

Electronic Instruments

What Musical Instrument Is Best For A Young Child To Learn?

1. Ukulele

2. Guitar

3. Drums

4. Piano

5. Violin

6. Saxophone

7. Xylophone

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Drums A Good Instrument For Young Children?

What Is The Best Age To Start Learning A Musical Instrument?

What Are The Best Musical Instruments For Young Children To Learn In 2023?

Can I Enroll For Virtual Music Lessons At Bow Lake Music?

Ready to find out more? Let’s get to it!

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What Are Musical Instruments?

Simply put, musical instruments are objects made with the intention of producing sound. In the beginning, ancient men produced songs with their bodies — clapping, making noises, and stamping their feet — but as time went by, they turned to the use of simple instruments like horns, sticks, and drums made of animal hide. 

Over time, countless devices, methods, and musical instruments were developed to produce more sonorous sounds. Even today, there are individuals who have committed their lives to use these instruments as a source of income; these people are known as instrumentalists. 

Music is a language of the heart, and musical instruments are the means by which this language is expressed.

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Moreso, there are four fundamental categories of musical instruments based on the ways in which these instruments produce sound. We will now briefly go through each of these types.

Types Of Musical Instruments

You need to become familiar with all of the different kinds of musical instruments if you’re interested in learning them. Exploring various musical instruments is thrilling even if you have no interest in playing any of them. This area of our blog will assist you in making a decision regarding the level of musical education you want for your child.

Percussion Instruments

These are musical instruments that make sound through percussion, i.e., by being struck by hands, other instruments, or a beater. They can also be classified as pitched or unpitched percussion instruments. 

Pitched percussion instruments produce notes with a definite or identifiable pitch. Examples are Xylophones, Vibraphones, Marimba, etc. However, unpitched percussion instruments are those percussion instruments that produce notes with indefinite pitch. Examples are Cymbals, Gong, Tambourine, etc

Photo by Pikist

Wind Instruments

These are musical instruments that use air as a medium to create sounds of various pitches and operate on the wave theory. The saxophone, bagpipes, and flute are a few examples.

Photo by Pickpik

String Instruments

These are musical instruments that use the vibration of many strings to make a sound. When their strings are pulled, they make noise. The length of the air column inside the instrument and the thickness of the string both affect the pitch and volume of the sound they generate. These instruments include several well-known ones such as the violin, guitar, and harp.

Photo by Pickpik

Electronic Instruments

When it comes to usability and simplicity of learning, electronic instruments top the list. Electronic instruments, in contrast to other conventional instruments, require little input from the musician. Modern technology is applied in these instruments, which operate according to the principles of electronics.

For instance, compare the usability and ease of learning a talking drum — a percussion instrument— and a keyboard — an electronic instrument— The Keyboard is a lot easier and faster to learn as the sound production is enhanced and assisted by technology. Unlike the talking drum where much effort is required to produce just a simple sound. Some examples of electronic instruments are keyboards, octopods, synthesizers, etc.

Photo by Pxhere

In addition, we share our opinions on a few musical instruments your child should learn based on our expertise as a music training school. In our last post, we said that young children who had the opportunity to study a musical instrument performed better on math exams and scored higher on the SAT than those who had not. So why not sign up your kid for one of the listed musical instrument lessons at our business,  Bow lake Music?

What Musical Instrument Is Best For A Young Child To Learn?

1. Ukulele

Photo by the US Air Force

The Ukulele, commonly referred to as the “Uke,” is a type of musical instrument in the string family that makes sound by the vibration of its strings and the size of its internal air column. The Ukulele is at the top of our ranking because of its distinctive qualities; unlike the guitar, it has four nylon strings that won’t hurt your child’s finger. They are also appropriate for your toddlers.  In our school, Bow lake Music, the Ukulele comes second on our list of most registered musical instrument training lessons because it is extremely easy to learn.

The Ukulele is a portable, easy-to-use musical instrument that promotes your kids’ development of strong auditory and creative talents. The Ukulele, which is compared to a miniature guitar, can teach your child the fundamental musical notes and rhythms while also fostering their appreciation of music. As it just costs $12 on Amazon, this instrument is easily accessible and affordable. For your kids, this can be a terrific musical introduction.

2. Guitar

Photo by Wikimedia

The Guitar is next on our list. In comparison to the ukulele, a regular guitar has six (6) strings and offers a wider range of notes and tones. Any kid can learn the fundamentals of music on the guitar, just like they can on the ukulele.

The guitar can also improve manual dexterity, which is the ability to control regulated movements with hand-eye coordination under specific conditions. As your child develops, this skill will be useful in a variety of situations, including writing, grabbing, and organizing puzzles and other items. Cheap guitars are also available on Amazon for as little as $26.

3. Drums

You can also buy your youngster a set of drums as musical instruments. The noise made by drums, however, worries the majority of parents. Obtaining substitute instruments in place of drums is frequently a source of concern. Parents can choose the electric equivalent, which makes a quieter sound, rather than the traditional set of drums, which is noisier. Your budget for this instrument should be between $50 and $150.

4. Piano

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Our list at Bow Lake Music Learning Center is topped by the Piano. Due to this instrument’s simplicity and quick learning curve, we are frequently astounded by the sheer number of children that come in to study it.

Because it is reasonably priced at our school and pupils complete their musical goals on schedule, the piano also became several parents’ favorite instrument. The keys on a piano are all put out in front of you, making it simpler to reach and master than other string instruments like the guitar or violin, which need a high level of physical dexterity.

The cost is another perk. You have undoubtedly heard that this instrument is pricey from friends or the news. In fact, contrary to popular belief, you can get a child’s piano on Amazon for as little as $21.

5. Violin

Photo by PickPik

Comparing the violin to some of the other musical instruments we have discussed, the violin is, in fact, a difficult instrument to learn. The difficulty is intended to be a part of the learning process, though.

The fact is that with a great tutor, a school like Bow Lake Music, and your child’s perseverance to push through the initial difficulties that come with learning and mastering the violin, your child will eventually make their way through learning any musical instrument in the world. This is true even though the violin places a significant demand on its user or learner’s manual dexterity.

6. Saxophone

Photo by Pexels

Another instrument that is ideal for your child to learn is the saxophone. Although it is an advanced instrument, not all children of all ages should play it. Because of its weight, the saxophone takes a lot of strength from the carrier.

Therefore, you should think about whether your children are strong enough to support the weight of the saxophone and hold the instrument for practice before you buy them a saxophone. Before you buy your child a saxophone or sign them up for saxophone lessons, we advise waiting until they are 7, 8, or even 10 years old.

7. Xylophone

We are aware that this term, “simple to learn,” has appeared several times in this post. But this time, we only want you to be aware that the Xylophone is truly the simplest instrument for your children to learn, regardless of their age. We would advise you to acquire a Xylophone or mini-Xylophone for your children in order to introduce them to music while they are still young. For the majority of us, this was our first musical instrument too.

It is a fantastic percussion instrument and the Xylophone is entirely safe. Toddlers enjoy tapping on musical instruments, and the Xylophone is made to be fun for them to play while they are occupied.

Photo by Wallpaperflare

Conclusion

We hope you found this blog post to be interesting. As we draw the curtains, we’d like to point out that before you buy your child an instrument or sign them up for music classes, you should think about talking to them if they’re old enough to express themselves. Furthermore, we would love to know which instrument you or your children decide to play.

Please take note that Bow Lake Music also offers language, coding, and music lessons for your children. Do you wish to learn more? Please get in touch with us on our website or at (587) 997-4616.

Check out our previous post: Children And Music: The Positive Effects Of Music On Child Development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Drums A Good Instrument For Young Children?

Yes, you may also purchase drums for your child as a set of musical instruments. However, the majority of parents are concerned about drum noise. They are frequently anxious about replacing the drums with other instruments. However, parents can opt for the electric version, which makes softer noise, rather than the traditional set of drums, which are noisier. Budget between $50 and $150 for this instrument.

What Is The Best Age To Start Learning A Musical Instrument?

As young as three, children can begin learning an instrument. We advise exposing your children to musical instruments from a young age because prior research has highlighted the significance of early exposure to musical instruments for kids, finding that those who had access to learning musical instruments performed better on arithmetic tests and scored higher on the SAT than those who did not. This is demonstrated by the fact that studying an instrument stimulates a mental route for logic.

What Are The Best Musical Instruments For Young Children To Learn In 2023?

The most popular instruments to learn are often the piano, xylophone, ukulele, violin, drums, saxophone, and guitar. Beyond these musical instruments, the list continues. The viola, clarinet, bass guitar, Cajon drum, trumpet, bongos, recorder, triangle, steel pans, cymbal, harp, piano, gong, bagpipes, and octopods are some additional instruments you might think about.

Also remember to take your children’s age, budget, and interests into account while selecting a musical instrument for them.

Can I Enroll For Virtual Music Lessons At Bow Lake Music?

Yes, you can sign up for online music classes at Bow Lake Music for any instrument of your choice. We are a Calgary, Alberta-based provider of music instruction, and we have facilities all around the city. We are experts in teaching the piano, guitar, drums, violin, saxophone, and voice.

Please get in touch with us by visiting https://bowlakemusic.com/ or calling (587) 997-4616.

For the majority of adults, listening to music is a way to pass the time, fight boredom, and for other petty reasons. However, music benefits kids in a lot more ways. Music has a vaooh7riety of advantages for kids, including speeding up language learning and boosting self-esteem.

The American Association for the Advancement of Science has conducted numerous studies that show music fosters children’s ability to learn new words, improve their motor abilities, and develop their creativity. According to neuroscience, listening to music stimulates the brain’s hearing, language, and motor control centers. Also, beyond the realm of research, our personal experiences with music are powerful enough to persuade us of its positive effects. For example, music cheers us up during our moments of weakness.

Hence, we decided to write about some developmental advantages of music for kids in this piece. But first, let’s briefly discuss the historical beginnings of music.

Table Of Contents

Table Of Contents

Origin Of Music

Types Of Music For Children

Music And Children: Benefits Of Music In Child Development

Relaxing music improves your child’s mood.

Children’s analytical abilities are strengthened when they learn to play musical instruments.

Fosters the link between parents and children

Improves cognitive development

Enhances emotional and social intelligence

Good music makes them joyful

Some Musical Instruments To Get For Your Kids

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does music affect a child’s brain development?

What are the benefits of music lessons?

What are the benefits of music therapy for children?

Photo from Pxhere

Origin Of Music

Several theories have been put forth on the origin of music, but I would like to focus on the idealism of musicologist Curt Sachs in this article. Sachs said that music has two origins: speech and emotional expression. He stressed that despite regional differences in music, these two distinct musical genres—expressionistic and communicative—evolved independently. In essence, he was arguing that music may be a means of verbal and nonverbal expression of emotions or pure words.

Photo from Maxpixels

Types Of Music For Children

There are numerous genres and styles of music in various cultures around the world. But in this article, we will restrict our choices to some kid-friendly tunes you can expose to your children. Some of these tunes are:

• Sing-Along
• Lullabies
• Nursery Rhymes
• Stories
• Music, Pop, and Classical
• Jazz
• Multicultural music

Music And Children: Benefits Of Music In Child Development

Our brief tour of the history of music and some genres to expose your kids to is now complete. Let’s now look at some of the main advantages of music for children’s development:

Relaxing music improves your child’s mood.

The first sound that a developing fetus hears is between 16 and 18 weeks into the pregnancy. By the time the child reaches 24 weeks, the hearing sense has developed enough for it to be able to consistently pick up sounds from its surroundings. At this point, the fetus starts to listen to its mother’s voice and words. Listening to or singing peaceful tunes will help to lift your child’s spirits at this point and even till postpartum. 

Slow, repetitive, and classical songs might help children unwind by slowing their heartbeat. Also, to help children develop a more regular sleep schedule, parents are encouraged to sing lullabies to their children.

Children’s analytical abilities are strengthened when they learn to play musical instruments.

Several studies conducted in the past have shown that young children who were exposed to learning musical instruments fared better on arithmetic tests and received higher SAT scores than those who were not. This is because learning musical instruments stimulates a cerebral pathway for reasoning.

Fosters the link between parents and children

Children tend to recognize their parents’ voices, especially their mother’s, even before they are born. Hence, teaching your child new songs and singing to them is a wonderful way to strengthen your bond with them. 

Improves cognitive development

This is unquestionably the most notable advantage of music for your children. Children are frequently described as quick learners. Your child can be put on the proper developmental path with the appropriate exposure to music at the appropriate time. The extras that come with good music include physical coordination such as jumping, clapping, waving, pointing, slamming, and more. Your youngster can also learn new vocabulary, intonations, pronunciations, and numeracy skills through music. You can as well teach your kids essential ideas through music.

Enhances emotional and social intelligence

When directed toward a common objective, teamwork, social, and the majority of emotional abilities become highly developed. Your child can develop their social and emotional abilities by participating in group activities such as singing, listening to music, learning a new song, or playing an instrument. This might foster a sense of unity among them and their peers. It is also a great means to boost their confidence.

Good music makes them joyful

Have you ever seen children move spontaneously to music? That is because they enjoy good music as well. Beyond brain growth, music is a terrific approach for your youngster to hone their emotions. Music improves children’s moods in the same way as it does for most adults. It is a fantastic method to make your youngster happy; if your child is always gloomy around the house, play enjoyable music continuously and watch as they move from boredom to excitement.

Some Musical Instruments To Get For Your Kids

Choosing the right musical instrument for your kids can be as stressful as shopping for groceries. There are several factors to consider before deciding on which instrument to get for your kids. 

Some of these factors are the age of the child, your budget, and your child’s musical needs. However, out of numerous options to pick from, we decided to help you by creating a simple list of some instruments to get for your kids across different age levels.

Some instruments to get for your kids are:

• Egg Shakers
• Harmonica
• Hand Cymbals
• Xylophone
• Piano
• Drums
• Hand Bells
• Kalimba
• Triangle
• Violin
• Tambourines
• Boomwhackers
• Guitar
• Hand Percussion

Conclusion

Conclusively, your child’s early development will improve by adding music to their norms, routines, and plays. Music can enliven them, provoke thoughts, and stimulate originality. Making and listening to music is an additional way to help your children develop their emotional, literacy, and numeracy skills.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does music affect a child’s brain development?

The American Association for the Advancement of Science has undertaken multiple studies that demonstrate how music assists youngsters in acquiring new words, increasing their creativity level, and improving their motor skills. Also, the hearing, language, and motor control areas of the brain are reportedly stimulated by listening to music.

What are the benefits of music lessons?

It has been demonstrated in a number of studies that young children who were exposed to learning musical instruments performed better on arithmetic exams and obtained higher SAT scores than those who were not. This is because learning musical instruments stimulates a brain region involved in reasoning. 

Here at Bow Lakes Music, we offered affordable music lessons and instrument training sessions. We will be more than happy to feature in your child’s success story.

What are the benefits of music therapy for children?

Slow, repetitive, and classical music may aid in children’s relaxation because slow music slows down the heartbeat. In contrast, fast music can help lift their spirits. Finally, parents are advised to sing lullabies to their children to help them establish a more regular sleep cycle.