When Should My Child Start Music Lessons?

Parents and caregivers who want their children to participate in music lessons can get conflicting information on what age children should be when they begin. In fact, many music teachers will not accept students under the age of seven or nine. Still, other teachers may take students as early as age three, depending on the type of music class and curriculum taught. As a parent, you may see early signs that your child is musically inclined, or you want to expose them to the world of music at an early age. Let's look at some aspects that may help you make the best musical decisions for your child.

The Window Of Opportunity For Grasping Music

Evidence suggests that the window of opportunity in music development in children is between birth and seven. During this time, a child's brain is a learning machine, and brain growth is rapid. Learning music at these ages is much easier for children; once this window of opportunity passes, it becomes much more challenging to form new habits and understand further information. In this line of thinking, learning music during childhood before nine is best.

Finding The Right Class For Your Child's Age

Finding a suitable music class for your child's age is essential to their learning and love of music. Several options exist that may be right for different children of certain ages. For instance, group music classes designed for infants through age five can expose young children to music in a fun and low-pressure environment. These types of courses also benefit the social development of children, and parents can participate, reinforcing bonds.

In early music classes, children may learn to explore a variety of instruments, rhythms, melodies, and genres that prepare them for private lessons down the road. Private music lessons may start at age five or six, depending on the school, teacher, and curriculum. What's most important at these ages is that you find an experienced music instructor experienced in teaching children the age of your child.

Young Children Learn Music In A Variety Of Ways

Music schools typically have a range of classes designed specifically for early learners. Children develop at different rates, and instructors knowledgeable of early childhood education understand how to bring out the best in early music learners. Young children typically can not sit still and focus for long periods, so some of the music curriculum your child experiences should be active learning. Games, dance, hands-on sound experiments, improvisation, and other activities may be part of young children's music lessons.

Learning Music As Your Child Grows

As your child grows, or if your child begins music lessons after the age of nine, they will have different options for learning. By this time, some children have chosen a favorite musical instrument they want to pursue in private lessons, and others may wish to continue in age-appropriate group music lessons. Your child's music teacher will help you determine the best course for your child as they advance in their musical education.