I started playing a musical instrument late in life, in fourth grade, at the ripe age of 9, when my public school offered classes. I like the violin, and I loved it. My teachers recognized my ability and supported my decision to become a professional. But when I got to the conservatory, what a surprise! Most of the other students had started years earlier, in kindergarten or earlier. I had to practice 5-7 hours a day to catch up with those ‘virtuosos’.

Today, a growing body of research confirms what I felt: There are neurological benefits to music training from an early age, when the brain is forming. Research also associates children’s music lessons with higher grades, test scores, and self-esteem. And starting young means kids have a better chance of becoming accomplished musicians, if that’s what they’re interested in.

But not too young! In addition to being a musician, I am the mother of three children (including two teenagers who are pre-professional musicians and a budding 6-year-old cellist); and I am the director and teacher of a school that has taught music to hundreds of young people of all ages. This is what practical experience has taught me about launching children happily and successfully into the world of music.

1. ENRICH BABIES. Teaching an instrument to a child under the age of 3 is an exercise in frustration. Instead, take them to listen to live music. Give them simple toy instruments, such as keyboards; children love to push buttons. If you’ve ever played an instrument, dust it off and play again, in front of them.

2. THERE IS A MAGIC NUMBER. They are about 3 ½ . For many kids, that’s the age when they can start concentrating enough for instrument lessons, especially if the instrument is a piano.

3. CAN YOUR PRESCHOOL CHILD CONCENTRATE? If the child can focus on a task like a puzzle or shape sorter for 20 minutes, that child is probably ready. (If he doesn’t stay still for more than 20 seconds, don’t despair, he’ll be here later!)

4. START WITH PIANO LESSONS. Although violins are made in baby sizes, they are extremely difficult for most children under the age of 4 1/2. The piano is much better. The child can sit comfortably. There is a palette in front of them – black and white keys. They can concentrate on hearing high and low tones: basic ear training. And there’s gratification right from the start: hit the key and it sounds good!

5. MAKE IT SOCIAL. The best classes for this age are like a large play group, with the instrument as the center. The kids can’t wait to see their friends. If there aren’t any classes like this in your area, consider finding another preschooler or two to join your child’s beginning lessons.

6. DO YOUR HOMEWORK. Get at least three recommendations from other parents. You and your child should meet the teacher ahead of time and tour the facility (either a music school or the instructor’s home).

7. LOOK FOR STATEMENTS. Most preschoolers love to perform for family and friends. The children dress up; they buy a special outfit; they even get new shoes! During or after the recital, there must be a reception (we call it a “party!”). Children will run, eat cookies and carrots, accept congratulations and feel great.

8. KEEP THE REWARDS FLYING. Children are very goal oriented, so give out LOTS of prizes, stickers, and small toys. When your child gets restless, you can say, “If you can play these three bars, you get a sticker.” It works like a miracle!

9. DO YOU HAVE FIVE MINUTES? While the lessons require your child to focus for 30 to 45 minutes, set the bar lower for practicing at home. If you can only spare five minutes, great. She will last longer as she gets older. Consistency is MUCH more important than duration.

10. CREATE A ROUTINE. Pick a regular place and time of day to practice.

11. BREAK THE ROUTINE. Some nights I create a stuffed animal audience for my 6 year old. On “backwards” night, he does the measurements backwards. He sometimes serenades me in the kitchen, while I cook. The crazier the better.

12. DO NOT BUY THE INSTRUMENT. If you have a choice, rent or borrow. Reducing your investment will help you achieve the right, relaxed attitude. When parents buy a new instrument for a beginner’s class, it’s practically a guarantee that the child will fail. They feel like they made this great investment, so it’s best for your child to move on. That’s too much pressure.

13. BE POSITIVE. Always see the positive side. Praise them for trying and for their improvement. Her approval motivates them to stick with her.

14. GIVE IT FIVE WEEKS. After five sessions, parents and children understand exactly what is required. That is the moment to ask yourself:

– Did my son learn anything?

– Will he or she practice for at least a few minutes a day?

-Made me It’s okay? They can me manage the investment of time and energy?

If you answered ‘yes’ to at least two of these questions, please continue with the music lessons. Most of our preschoolers go to private classes. Or, if they are old enough (4 ½ minimum), some switch to a stringed instrument. Piano lessons help tremendously when faced with the increasing complexity of holding and playing a violin, cello, or guitar.

But even if your child isn’t ready to move on, you haven’t wasted your investment. Everything they learned in those first five weeks will still be there when they are mature enough to continue making music, be it 3 months or 3 years from now.

© 2008, Susan Pascale, all rights reserved.