Choosing a first instrument by age

Many kids want to play everything they see. A good first instrument is the one they keep picking up.

1. Are their hands ready?

Ages 3–5 suit percussion and singing; piano from about 5, ukulele about 6, a small guitar about 8.

2. Can they practise at home?

Ten minutes a day matters more than an expensive instrument; a starter keyboard or ukulele is plenty.

3. Which sound do they love?

Let them listen and try at a trial, then notice what they talk about on the way home.