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1. 

   Mike on February 23, 2017 at 10:23 am

   Hi Michelle

   Guitar lessons for kids really depend on the child’s physical and cognitive capabilities.

   I have taught children as young as four and believe four year olds can learn the guitar but not using traditional methods initially. At the age of 4 most children can’t read or write however are able to recognise shapes (notes) and take instruction. The way I normally commence is to focus on technique such as using fingers (or pick), thumb, strumming and eventually playing the right string/fret to the right shape (note) eventually working towards timing. I also repetitively throw in theory and building as the child progresses. Most importantly we’ll need to make the lesson fun, it also really helps if you sit in on the lesson and ensure your child practices.

   In a thirty minute class for the average child we’ll be lucky if we get fifteen to twenty minutes of solid concentration so be prepared to be patient. The advantage of starting early is that we can get the motor skills and feel for the guitar established at a very early age which will help avoid any future obstacles, also at that age their like a sponge, any theory or musical terms tend to stick.

   One last thing. If you do decide to proceed with lessons then more than likely your child they will need a 1/2 size guitar (possible 1/4), for a little girl 1/4 size guitar. Best thing will be to go to a guitar store and see for yourself rather than buying online. If this isn’t an option play it safe and get the 1/4 size guitar.

   I have taught children age 4 and for the right child starting at this age is fantastic.

   Hope this all helps and feel free to get in touch should you have further queries

   Mike

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