Starting Your Kid On Acoustic Guitar Classes

A lot of people will tell you that the right age is around 5 or 6 years old, when your kids are already receptive to structured teaching, like acoustic guitar classes. But some children, although ready for formal teaching, are still not physically able to properly hold a guitar.

 

The decision then is really different for every child. As a parent, you will be the one to make that decision for your own child. Here are a few pointers to help you make the choice:

 

  • Emotional readiness

Learning the guitar is easy, for us adults. But for kids, acoustic guitar classes may be harder than their classroom tasks. More important than being physically capable, your child’s ability to face frustrations should be considered very well. Make sure your child is ready to take momentary defeats and difficulties, and be able to bounce back and try it all over again.

 

  • Physical readiness

For one, your child should be able to comfortably put his hands around the neck of the guitar. Although there are different sizes of acoustic guitars, and there are small ones which a child can easily put his hands around on, it is advisable that they use as close to the standard size as possible.

 

Guitar playing also demands a lot of dexterity on the part of the child. Sure, this skill can be developed over time, but this is usually the part where frustration starts, so it will be good that he has a head start on his dexterity.

 

  • Focus and interest

Do not force your child to take the lessons if he doesn’t want to. Even though it is eventually your decision, the child’s genuine interest on guitars will make the entire course enjoyable and productive.

 

The child’s ability to focus on a single task for extended periods of time is also critical to the endeavor. This characteristic will be greatly tested during actual lessons, and when he practices at home. Ability to focus on a task lessens the chances of the child quitting on the lessons.

 

As a parent, you also have critical roles and duties with regards to your child’s guitar training. Do not let your child take the class, and then just sit back and simply watch. Your job does not end in bringing him to class and picking him up after.

 

  • Share their interest

It doesn’t matter if you have no guitar-playing skills. What is more important is that your child sees that you genuinely are as excited as they are. Encourage them to play in front of you what they learned that day, and sing along to their playing. This helps them along especially during difficult lessons.

 

  • Be their gentle critic

Observe and listen closely to how they are progressing, and point out where you think they can improve on. You may not be a professional musician, and you are not their instructor, but they look up to you, and you’ll be surprised that they will value and heed your advice.

 

Watching your child play a musical instrument is a very rewarding experience. Make sure their learning experience does not end with their acoustic guitar classes. Your involvement and participation in their learning is a lot more valuable than you think.