There’s a reason why children are encouraged to learn an instrument when they’re young. Even if they don’t grow up to be the next Jimi Hendrix or Beethoven, being able to play an instrument is a great skill, and it gives children the perfect opportunity to get creative and grow in confidence.

We’ll cover more of the benefits associated with learning to play music later; but first, if you want your child to pick up a musical instrument, you need to choose one!

In this article, we’ll discuss the best instruments for kids, looking at the skills that each one can develop and who it’s suited to.

Guitar

Whether it’s rock, pop, jazz, blues, or anything in between, the guitar is a great way for your child to explore a vast range of genres.

As a string instrument, it teaches kids about chords, strumming patterns, and finger placement, which are crucial for developing both fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

Acoustic guitars are often a good starting point as they don’t require additional equipment like amplifiers and cables. Although the neck of an acoustic is wider than an electric, it builds up good technique, and it might actually make the transition to electric easier if that’s your child’s aim.

You might choose an acoustic with nylon strings as an entry-level option as these strings are softer on the fingers than their steel counterparts.

Our guitar recommendation: Yamaha F310 Acoustic with Gear4music Accessory Pack & VISIONSTRING Electric Guitar Pack

Ukulele

If your child wants a fun, cheerful instrument that they can easily carry to school or meet-ups with friends, the ukulele is ideal. Plus, they can learn a range of songs on the ukulele, from basic nursery rhymes to modern pop and rock tracks.

Smaller and lighter than a guitar, the ukulele’s size makes it easy for young hands to hold and play.

It has only four strings, which are typically nylon, meaning they’re softer and easier to press down than the steel strings of a guitar. They can make a big difference in helping children learn basic chord shapes and strumming patterns without much strain.

With a bright, clear sound, the ukulele is great for getting to grips with the basics of harmony, rhythm, and timing. Many people choose to stick with the ukulele as their sole or main instrument, while others use it as a good entry-level option before moving to the guitar or bass.

Our ukulele recommendation: Luna Tattoo Concert Ukulele & Ukulele Pack by Gear4music

Drums

Drums are a fantastic choice for children who are naturally energetic and need a creative outlet. Even with a basic kit, the drums require children to focus on timing and rhythm – foundational skills in music.

The drums are the backbeat of a band, and they give children the responsibility and confidence to take on the role of keeping everyone in time.

Playing the drums also improves coordination as you need to use both hands and feet independently.

A basic drum set typically includes a bass drum, snare drum, and cymbals. If you’re concerned about noise, try an electronic kit – these allow your child to practise with headphones on.

Drumming is a great outlet for self-expression, giving children the freedom to experiment with different tempos and beats. It also teaches discipline as keeping a consistent rhythm requires concentration and practice.

Our drums recommendation: Ludwig Pocket Kit by Questlove & VISIONDRUM Electronic Drum Kit with Stool and Headphones

Recorder

If your child wants to get into woodwind, the recorder is one of the easiest places to start.

It’s straightforward to play, requiring just breath control and finger placement to produce sound.

Its lightweight design and small size make it easy for young children to handle, and they can start playing with just a few basic notes.

Better still, because it’s an ideal introductory woodwind instrument, many primary schools will hold recorder classes or groups, making it a social and engaging activity. Kids will develop breath control, finger dexterity, and an understanding of musical notation.

It provides an excellent foundation for learning more complex woodwind instruments in the future.

Our recorder recommendation: Aulos Descant 303A Dark Brown Elite Recorder & Descant Recorder with Cleaning Rod

Violin

If you can bear the initial screechiness of a child learning their first notes, the violin is an excellent instrument that serves as more than just an entry-level option.

With various sizes to choose from (see our violin size guide to help you find the right fit), your child can gain a deep understanding of music with the violin.

They’ll learn precise finger placement and bow control as well as develop their listening abilities as they must carefully tune their ear to pitch and tone.

It’s a great one for teaching patience and discipline, whilst being fun to play.

Plus, the violin produces a wide range of expressive dynamics, from soft, delicate notes to powerful melodies. And there are a variety of playing techniques, such as drawing a bow across the strings or plucking them with the fingers, known as pizzicato.

Our violin recommendation: Stentor Student 2 Violin Outfit & Student Full Size Violin by Gear4music

Clarinet

With a smooth, rich, and clear tone, the clarinet is a great one for children to pick up.

It’s suited to both classical pieces as well as modern pop, with a sound that can go from warm and mellow to bright and lively.

Learning the clarinet helps children develop breath control, finger dexterity, and an understanding of musical phrasing. As it’s relatively easy to pick up the basics, the clarinet serves as an excellent instrument to start with before moving on to the flute or other members of the woodwind family – although many stick with it as their main instrument.

To play the clarinet, the keys and holes must be covered, requiring precision and coordination. However, the clarinet might be a bit heavy for younger or smaller players; in this case, try a neck strap to take some of the weight.

Our clarinet recommendation: Buffet Prodige Bb Clarinet & Student Clarinet by Gear4music

Flute

The flute is a good choice if your child is interested in woodwind but wants something a little more challenging.

The flute does not use a reed; instead, the player’s breath blown across the mouthpiece produces the sound.

It requires strong breath control and lung capacity, so it might take a bit of time and practice to get used to – but this is great for building discipline and patience.

With a light, airy sound, the flute is a beautiful instrument to play.

Plus, it’s usually played in ensembles, so it’s a great way for your child to pick up a new skill whilst also learning with friends.

Our flute recommendation: Trevor James TJ5X Student Flute & Student Flute with Case by Gear4music