What should I buy my child as a first instrument?

Someone at one of my classes today asked me my opinion on good first instruments for young children. I thought I might be able to elaborate a little better on my blog.

For preschoolers and toddlers, there are three things important in an instrument 1. Safety and durability 2. the instrument should be developmentally appropriate 3. the instrument should have a pleasing sound to the child

1. First and foremost, be sure that any instrument you purchase is safe. Some cheaper instruments tear up and pose a choking hazard for your child. I have tried out many different kinds of instruments and more often than not, the cheaper instruments do not last long at all. Read customer reviews on any instruments you find online. Kindermusik international sells durable instruments that are specifically made for children and made to take a beating. I also love Remo drums. They are beautiful instruments and durable as well.

2. Make sure that the instrument is developmentally appropriate. Before rushing out to by a 2 year old a guitar or a piano consider the attention span and fine motor skills of your child. You want your child to like music right? Then buy them an instrument that they can feel successful at. They may enjoy banging away at a glockenspiel or keyboard but it probably will not last long. The simple instruments like rhythm sticks, egg shakers, and drums can provide hours or imaginative play as as well as working on steady beat and motor skills. These instruments can be played in so many ways which not only provides your child with a creative outlet but also works different sets of fine motor skills and hand eye coordination. The simple instruments prepare them for success at the more advance instruments later on.

3. Be sure that the instrument you choose has a pleasing sound to you and the child. One thing I like about Kindermusik instruments is that they have a good sound. Some of the cheaper instruments that you might find have a loud brash sound that grates on the nerves after a while! The Kindermusik egg shakers in particular have a nice pleasant sound as well as the Remo drums. For drums, you can also vary your drumsticks. I prefer using paintbrushes, paper towels rolls, and wooden spoons over the loud drumsticks that come with more drums.

Sometimes, the best instruments can be found for free! Tupperware containers, coffee cans, pots and pans and cardboard boxes make great drums. Water bottles with beans inside make good shakers. Body percussion is even cheaper than homemade instruments. Put on your favorite CD and find different ways to tap and move your body. Put hand motions or sign language to your child's favorite song. There is so much that can be done at home for free. Also remember, if you take a Kindermusik class at the Cherubs Clubhouse, you will get a quality, developmentally instrument and a CD as part of you materials for you to continue the music at home.