Best Instruments for 6 Year Olds
Find the perfect instrument for your first-grader. Expert recommendations for piano, guitar, violin, and more.
Quick Answer:
The best instruments for 6-year-olds are piano/keyboard, 1/2 size guitar, violin (1/4 size), and ukulele. At 6, children have the focus and motor skills for most beginner instruments and can make excellent progress with regular practice.
Piano remains the top recommendation at 6. A 61-key keyboard is ideal, or consider an 88-key digital piano if you're committed.
More Great Options for 6 Year Olds
1/2 Size Acoustic Guitar
Most 6-year-olds fit a 1/2 size guitar perfectly. Classical (nylon string) guitars are easier to start with than steel-string.
Pros
- Cool factor keeps kids engaged
- Can play along to songs
- Develops finger strength
- Portable
Cons
- Initial fingertip tenderness
- Requires tuning
Violin (1/4 size)
Six is a popular age to start violin. The 1/4 size fits most 6-year-olds. Look for student outfit packages with bow and case.
Pros
- Excellent ear training
- Strong technique foundation
- Orchestra opportunities later
- Portable
Cons
- Requires significant practice
- Sounds rough initially
- Needs parent help
Concert Ukulele
At 6, some kids can move up to the slightly larger concert ukulele, while soprano still works well too.
Pros
- Easy to learn
- Quick progress
- Builds guitar skills
- Very affordable
Cons
- Limited range
- May want 'bigger' instrument
What to Avoid at Age 6
Instruments to wait on:
- Full-size guitars (too large)
- Brass instruments (wait for adult teeth)
- Woodwinds (most 6-year-olds' hands are too small)
- Adult drum kits (junior kits are fine)
Understanding Your 6 Year Old's Development
Six-year-olds typically have 20-30 minute attention spans and improved fine motor control. They can read simple music notation and understand basic counting. Most are ready for weekly lessons with daily home practice.
Quick Tips for Parents
- Follow your child's interest - motivation trumps everything
- Start with short practice sessions appropriate for their attention span
- Focus on fun first - technique can be refined over time
What's Next?
Ready to find the perfect instrument? Take our First Instrument Quiz for personalized recommendations, or explore our detailed guides for specific instruments:
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 6 too old to start piano?
Absolutely not! Six is actually considered an ideal age to start piano. Children have developed enough to follow lessons but are still young enough to build strong foundations.
Can a 6 year old start drums?
Yes! Junior drum kits are sized for 6-year-olds, or consider electronic drums for quieter practice. Drums are great for active kids with lots of energy.
How do I choose between piano and guitar for my 6 year old?
Piano is often recommended for building music theory fundamentals, while guitar is great for kids who want to play songs they hear on the radio. Consider what music your child enjoys and which instrument excites them more.
Not sure which instrument is right?
Take our quick quiz to get personalized recommendations based on your child's age, interests, and your budget.
Take the Free QuizFree, no email required