Article by Jeff Ashby
Does your child seem to have an aptitude for music? Do they enjoy playing air guitar with music they hear? I first got interested in the guitar because my father and brother were interested. I bought my first guitar in the Philippines and actually had to get it restrung in order to accommodate my left-handedness. Here are some tips in choosing a guitar for your son or daughter.
1) Make sure the guitar is small enough for your kid's body
Children under five don't really have the ability to play a string guitar. Begin this age group out on toy guitars that light up, or play music with easy to touch buttons. Once your child can graduate from these basic toys, you can "upgrade" to toy guitars with strings, amplifiers, and microphones. You can also purchase a Ukelele for your child. This is a perfect substitute for a real guitar that will fit their body type. Once your child gets to the point where he/she can start playing a real guitar, it is time for them to get their own acoustic guitar or electric guitar.
2) Acoustic Guitar for Children
Once your child gets to be 5 - 7 years old, you can purchase several different styles of kid's guitars. These guitars usually differ in size based on a fraction from the normal size (a 3/4 guitar would be larger than a 1/4 guitar). These smaller guitars have the exact same sound as an adult guitar but are made to fit the smaller arms and hands of your child. The neck is usually narrower to accommodate the kid's fingers.
Many of these guitars come in different colors, and make sure you get a good case to keep it protected and well cared for.
3) Acoustic Guitar for Children
You can also purchase a kid size electric guitar. Electric guitars have a much different sound and require an amplifier to obtain the full sound. Make sure your child will not be disturbing any neighbors as he/she rocks out.
Usually it is a good idea to start your kid on an acoustic guitar before purchasing an electric. It would also be a good idea to get a couple of lessons behind them and be comfortable with strumming.
Whatever you and your child choose to do, remember learning an instrument won't only be rewarding, but musical children also tend to have better attention spans and do better in school. Also playing an instrument will be a productive, social hobby that will be very healthy in their developmental years.
Kid's Guitars can be reviewed and purchased at www.smallguitars.comOriginally posted at www.smallguitars.com/blog
About the Author
Jeff Ashby is an article writer.