Music Lessons – is your child ready? -

Many parents wonder what is the appropriate age for children to start their music education? To be honest there is no one right answer to this question. Nowadays formal music classes are held for children as young as 2-3 years old and there are a lot of different methods and techniques that support that kind of approach.

Even though the early childhood music education is really important you have to understand that it does not involve the actual playing of the musical instrument. So, how do you actually know that your child is ready to play a musical instrument? Generally speaking the child is ready to play the musical instrument somewhere between the ages of 5 and 6, but there are some definite signs to look for in order to establish whether or nor your child is ready.

Let’s talk about the most important ones.

1. The first question that you should ask yourself is whether or not your child knows the difference between left and right hand. That knowledge is especially important for those parents who would like their children to study the piano.

2. Secondly, ask yourself if your child knows how to count to 10 and

3. Can recognize the letters A through G.

If you answered “yes” to the first three questions, you are half way in. But there are other factors to consider as well. Please, keep in mind that in order to play a musical instrument a child should possess a certain level of coordination. Test your child and see if he/she can wiggle each finger independently and can hold and manipulate a pencil fluidly? Is he or she big enough to sit at the piano or to hold an instrument comfortably?

If all the above requirements are met it is time to talk about the maturity level. In order to be able to take a formal music class your child should be able to focus for a certain amount of time (usually 30 minutes at first) and to be able to follow simple directions given by a teacher. Also ask yourself if your child is ready to deal with the need to practice in order to get better.

And don’t forget that even if your child fits all the above requirements he/she will need your help and attention anyway. So, besides evaluating your child, ask yourself if you would be willing to find 10, 15, 20 minutes a day to help your child with the music studies if that might become necessary. Children progress much quicker if the parents are involved in their education.

In conclusion, you must absolutely consider the fact whether or not the child has expressed the desire to take music lessons or if the idea presented to him/her has evoked any interest or excitement. Forcing a child into taking music lessons might lead to a total loss of interest in music or any creative activity for that matter. So, be sensitive to your child’s needs and desires.

To find out more about our programs and offers, please visit our website or call directly.

Joyful Music – Piano for Kids

310.295.7209

818.237.7101

http://www.myjoyfulmusic.com