Written by the KK Music team

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Are you looking for a fun activity or hobby for your child that doesn’t involve video games? I have an answer that just may end up being music to your ears! Learning to play a musical instrument at a young age can be a very enriching endeavor. I can honestly say that from experience as both my kids have picked up an instrument and are currently making beautiful (usually) music!

So how can you convince your own child to give music a try? There are actually a number of ways to positively reinforce this notion within your little one. It all starts at the beginning – literally! The earlier you engage your child with music, the more you can increase their musical aptitude. So go ahead and start singing, dancing, and playing at once to begin reaping the benefits.

Six Benefits of Getting Your Kid Involved With Music

Music can have a beneficial, lasting effect on your child in many cognitive areas. From language skills to memory to mathematics, the list seems to go on and on:

1. Language - According to studies, young children who take part in music classes develop improved speech and learn to read more easily. By learning music theory and the technique of their instrument, they are expanding the left side of the brain, which is related to language and reasoning. This leads right into our second benefit...
2. Brain Growth - Neuroscience specialists have proven that music can enhance a child’s brain function. Playing an instrument, singing, or simply listening to music helps stimulate the brain, causing new neural connections, which leads to improved brain structure as well as our third benefit...
3. Memory/Concentration - Learning an instrument bolsters working memory skills, helping your child remember things better even if their minds are busy thinking of something else. That is the cornerstone of mental arithmetic and reading comprehension. Also, learning requires concentration, helping your child to pay attention for extended amounts of time.
4. Math Skills - As your child listens to musical beats, they can learn basic fractions, pattern-recognition, and problem solving. Plus, studying music can also assist in more advanced levels of mathematics by helping improve spatial intelligence and the ability to form mental pictures of objects.
5. Social Skills - Playing music with a band or choir is a great way to heighten your child’s social and emotional skills. Learning to work as a team helps them develop a sense of empathy with others.
6. Better Coordination - Playing an instrument involves different types of movements that can help your child grow their motor skills. They will be using their hands, ears, eyes, muscles, all simultaneously – a beautiful blend of body and mind working together!

How to Get Your Child Into Making Music

Now that you’re aware of the benefits playing a musical instrument provides, how can you go about getting your child interested in actually picking one up? The following list details some helpful techniques that won’t come off as push. My goodness, do NOT be pushy!

Let them decide!

I can’t say it enough: don’t be pushy when your child is selecting a musical instrument! By giving them the freedom to choose what they like, you’ll already be ahead of the game! Your child will feel extra important with the understanding that the instrument choice is their call, which should also help plant the seed of responsibility when it comes time to practice.

Let them mimic!

If you have even an ounce of musical ability (whether it’s an instrument, singing, or dancing), don’t let it go to waste! Practice in front of your child. Make it a fun event each time. This should do wonders for getting your child to play along to be just like you! And who knows? You may even start your own generational-talent band!

Let them learn!

Taking lessons will help your child become less afraid of making mistakes with their instrument. They can also take pride in knowing that they have their very own instructor! Just be sure to select a teacher who works well with kids and is FUN! Of course, don’t start your little one too early. The ideal age to begin taking lessons on an instrument starts at around 5 and up.

Best Musical Instrument for Your Kid to Learn

Here’s the fun part! What instrument is best for your little musical beginner? First off, I highly recommend shopping for entry level, beginner musical instruments because it gives your child the chance to try out something they may like without fully committing to a more expensive version. There’s nothing wrong with having your child try out different instruments. With that said, here are the top choices for kids right at the start of their instrumental journey:

• Drums - Ah, yes, every kid’s favorite noise maker! Despite the obvious vociferous percussion beats, the drums are a relatively easy instrument to tackle. Because of the bang-away-again-and-again attributes, your child will enjoy practicing and may not even realize it as their skills progress. The drums teach rhythm and are actually great stress relievers as well!
• Violin - It may be a very challenging instrument to master at first, however if your child has the discipline to persevere, the violin can make some truly delightful music. It also helps develop tone, pitch, and coordination.
• Trumpet - Out of all the brass instruments, the trumpet is the most ideal for beginners. Its relatively lightweight design will allow your child to hold it in position for a lengthy period of time.   
• Flute - Like the trumpet, the lightweight flute is easier to hold upright while playing. It will teach your child patience as they work to find the right keys to press. Also, it is an excellent crossover instrument for playing the clarinet!

Review (Curtain Call)

You should now have a good handle on some positive methods for getting your child interested in learning a musical instrument. Here is a quick recap to keep in mind as you move forward:

• Getting your child into making music at an early age has a vast amount of developmental benefits.. Investing in brain growth, coordination, math skills, and more would be a worthwhile venture for your child.
• Be sure to make this learning experience fun for both you and your child. Don’t be pushy or overstep. This is THEIR decision! 
• When shopping for your child’s first instrument, it is a good idea to go with an entry level version because they are usually less expensive, yet still play true to tune!