Is my child ready for piano lessons?

Scenerio: you see your child taking an interest in the piano, roaming the piano keyboard with their fingers, tapping the keys making up tunes, all while making happy faces. :)

You are now wondering if you should pursue lessons for them. Yes!

Let's find out more...

Can your child use many fingers to push the keys down?

It is helpful if your young child can wiggle their fingers and push a piano key with each of their fingers, of course, some fingers are easier than others, and that's ok, they will get stronger as they learn piano.

Can your child sit for a good amount of time, say 10-15 minutes before they need to wiggle?

If your child is able to listen, focus and try to do the things they are asked to do in lessons, then that's perfect. The young child needs to wiggle as well, and that's why 'off the bench' activities are incorporated; such as, rhythmic drumming, mini theory games ,and music manipulatives. All of these help to reinforce what they are learning and makes it fun!

Is your child familiar with the alphabet, letters A - G or numbers 1 - 5?

We can definitly learn these letters and numbers at piano lessons, too, but it's great if they have a little background knowledge.

Does your child know their left and right hands?

Well, sometimes adults have to think twice about left and right, so this should be ok. ;)

I will often color code the sheet music so it makes it easier to know which hand needs to play what.

Do you have time to sit with your child at home and help with practice?

The younger the child, the slower the learning generally, but I have had some very young ones surprise me. Will your child sit at the piano at least 4-5 days a week to practice the lesson material? Practicing at home is very important for progress. If the parent takes interest, I believe your child will thrive at learning the piano.

Do not hesitate to inquire about lessons for your young child. I am happy to answer any questions or concerns.