We help you help your child learn the guitar
Learn to support your child’s guitar interest. Find everything from knowing what to expect to choosing the right kid-friendly guitar gear.
8 Guitar Roadblocks for Kids & How to Overcome Them
Many kids start learning guitar with stars in their eyes, but for some, that passion fades. We analyzed 62 unique sources, including research publications from around the world. Here are the key findings and recommendations for parents.
Findings & Recommendations
1. Ouchy Fingers
Research highlights finger pain as a significant concern for new guitar learners. Pressing down on those steel strings can hurt little fingertips at first. This discomfort can be a real turn-off for beginners, according to Justin Guitar.
How Parents Can Help
- Start with a nylon-string guitar; they’re much gentler.
- Ensure the guitar is properly set up, so the strings aren’t too high.
- Encourage short, frequent practice sessions to build calluses gradually.
- Remind your child that this is normal and temporary.
2. Feeling Stuck
Studies show that a perceived lack of progress is a major demotivator. When kids don’t feel like they’re improving, they can get discouraged. It’s like trying to climb a hill that never ends.
How Parents Can Help
- Celebrate small wins! Did they learn a new chord or a simple song? That’s progress!
- Help them set realistic, achievable goals.
- Remind them that learning takes time and patience.
3. Not Fun Anymore
Research indicates that enjoyment is crucial for maintaining engagement. If lessons focus on music they don’t enjoy or feel like boring drills, kids can lose interest.
How Parents Can Help
- Encourage them to learn songs they love!
- Talk to the teacher about incorporating their favourite music.
- Make practice fun with games and challenges.
4. Teacher Trouble
According to MusicTeacher.com, The teacher-student relationship is a significant factor in student retention. Sometimes, the teacher’s style just doesn’t click with your child.
How Parents Can Help
- Find a teacher who is experienced with children, patient, and encouraging.
- Keep open communication with the teacher to ensure they meet your child’s needs.
- Trust your child’s gut; if they are not connecting with the teacher, it is okay to change teachers.
5. No Cheerleaders
According to Lifein12keys.com, Parental support is vital for a child’s musical development. If parents aren’t showing interest or encouraging practice, kids may feel like it’s not important.
How Parents Can Help
- Show genuine interest in their playing.
- Listen when they practice and offer positive feedback.
- Help them find a regular practice time and space.
6. Too Many Things
MerriamMusic.com suggests that time constraints can lead to music lessons being dropped. Kids have busy lives! Sometimes there just doesn’t seem to be enough time for everything.
How Parents Can Help
- Show genuine interest in their playing.
- Listen when they practice and offer positive feedback.
- Help them find a regular practice time and space.
7. Guitar Problems
Guitar Girl Magazine says instrument-related problems can hinder a child’s progress. A guitar that’s too big, hard to play, or sounds bad can be frustrating.
How Parents Can Help
- Ensure they have a guitar that fits their size.
- Get the guitar properly set up by a professional.
- Invest in a decent-quality instrument.
8. Thinking It’s Too Hard
Willan Academy says unrealistic expectations can lead to discouragement. Kids might compare themselves to advanced players and feel like they’ll never be that good.
How Parents Can Help
- Ensure they have a guitar that fits their size.
- Get the guitar properly set up by a professional.
- Invest in a decent-quality instrument.