Get the Right Size
Getting an instrument that is the right size for your child is the most important factor in setting your child up for success. Imagine your child trying to play basketball or soccer in clown shoes. While a funny image, they would struggle to succeed—the same is true when children try to play on a guitar that is too big for them.
Every child is different, and there are a lot of factors that come into play, including hand size, torso length, and arm length. In general, I’ve found the following guidelines helpful:
- 3-4 years old: Ukulele or 1/8 size guitar
- 5-10 years old: 1/4 size guitar
- 10-12 years old: 1/2 size guitar
- 11-14 years old: 3/4 size guitar
- 12-17 years old: Full size guitar (timing varies by growth—some students need a full-size instrument in 7th grade, while others might not until 10th grade)
It’s always a good idea to consult with your child’s teacher before making a purchase, as they can help assess what size will work best for your child.
Make Sure It Has Nylon Strings
I now insist that all my students start on nylon strings. Why? Because steel strings are incredibly painful for young fingers. I didn’t always have this policy, and I’ve seen firsthand the problems it can cause. A few students who started on steel strings experienced so much discomfort that they avoided practicing altogether. As a result, they didn’t progress, became discouraged, and eventually quit.
Children’s fingers aren’t as tough as adults’, and steel strings can cause unnecessary pain and discouragement. All the guitars I recommend (linked in my Amazon store*) have nylon strings. If you’ve already purchased a steel-string guitar, there are ways to put nylon strings on it. While it won’t sound as good as a guitar designed for nylon strings, it can work as a short-term solution.
Choose a High-Quality Guitar
It can be tempting to think, “Let me get a really cheap instrument now to see if my child likes it, and then I’ll upgrade later.” I completely understand this reasoning, but unfortunately, lower-quality instruments often lead to frustration. Poor-quality guitars are harder to play and don’t sound as nice, which can discourage your child from practicing and enjoying their lessons.
You don’t need to buy the most expensive guitar, but you should invest in one that’s dependable and allows your child to make a beautiful sound. I’ve found a lot of success with Cordoba models, and Yamaha guitars are also reliable. For top-of-the-line fractional (child-sized) guitars, LaMancha and Kremona are excellent choices. While they’re a bit more expensive, they do produce a noticeably richer tone.
Get a Case to Protect It
Here in Pennsylvania, we experience extreme weather—cold winters and hot summers—which can damage a guitar. To protect the instrument, it’s important to invest in a good case. For young children, a soft case works well, and I’ve included recommendations in my Amazon store*. A proper case not only keeps the guitar safe from weather but also prevents accidental damage, saving you from having to buy another instrument down the road.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right guitar for your child is a critical first step in their musical journey. By selecting the correct size, ensuring it has nylon strings, prioritizing quality, and protecting it with a case, you’re setting your child up for success and a lifetime of musical enjoyment.
Feel free to email me or schedule a consultation to discuss the perfect guitar for your child.
*I receive commission for purchases made through this link.