As a music teacher and now school owner, I answer questions all the time about how to know if my child is ready for music lessons. My first response is to always ask are YOU ready to learn with your child. Allow me to correct the myth of dropping off your child, their music teacher waving a wand and you now have a Mozart on your hands. Of course you need to be involved- and more than financing.
Let's talk about 5 ways to know if your child is ready.
1. Does he/she even like music? - If your child is into dance, art or sports. STOP right here and follow their interests. Do the teacher and child a favor.
2. Can he/she follow directions? - Following directions is a must for really anything. A beginning music student should be able to focus and follow directions for at least 30 minutes. Remember, music lessons are structured learning.
3. Fine Motor Skills- Can your child cut paper, pick up cheerios, hold a pencil, etc. Playing a musical instrument requires fingers to work independently of each other.
4. Counting to 10- Early in music, a child learns to count music to four. However being able to count higher comes in handy.
5. Righty Right or Lefty Left- Really, your child will need to be able to distinguish the difference. Whether it is piano or drums utilizes both hands and the budding musician will need to know the difference.
This list is not exhaustive of all the signs but early indicators. Schedule an interview with the teacher and learn their philosophy towards teaching music. Learning an instrument should be enjoyable and not a chore.
Jeanetta Hopkins is owner and founder of Bull City Music School located in Durham, North Carolina. She is committing her life to advocating for quality music education and access to the arts for all children and the community in which they live. Be sure to keep up with Bull City Music School and subscribe to our website -www.bullcitymusicschool.com. Let's get social follow us on facebook, twitter and instagram at Bull City Music School. We would love to hear your feedback and answer and questions.