I would like my 8 year old ds to play or at least try to play (something). What instrument do you think someone might pick if we(parents) are not sure if the child would like playing? I mentioned it to ds and he didn't know what he wanted to try.

Any thoughts?

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Mary

That's a toughie...I would probably take my child's lead on it, you can want your child to play an instrument but if they don't want to, or aren't interested...kwim? You know that old saying, you can lead a horse to water...L.OL.

Around us, suzuki lessons (piano, violin, cello and maybe flute too) are very popular. They're usually very low key and the kids have a lot of fun with it, that might be a good place to start if you have them offered in your area. My kids were never interested in the suzuki method though, it just depends on the child.

My older son had an interest in guitar and he does take lessons and really enjoys them. My younger son recently expressed an interest in piano, so we're looking into that. IMO, I think if the child hasn't already expressed an interest in a specific instrument, it's the parent that is choosing and that might not work out so great. My Mom choose for me and my sisters to all take piano. For me, it worked out fine, I really enjoyed it. My sisters hated it and it was many years of crying, no practicing, paying for lessons that weren't utilized etc for them and for my parents. I don't think forcing a child to do lessons does anything for the child. I'm not saying that you're going to do that but I know people that have their child taking lessons, and the child is not happy and doesn't want to do it but they keep signing their kid up because "it's important". I know one family that their kids get up at 5:30 every morning to practice their instruments. Supposedly there is no other time for them to practice. That seems almost abusive to me...L.OL! To each their own. For me, what is important is that my kids try different things and also I think for them, that they enjoy their activities.

Is your son in school? Do you have a music teacher? Maybe they could help you...

great minds think alike. I was just going to post that.

allgirls

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allgirls, mom to 3 girls

With a boy of that age, I'd say guitar or drums. Your nerves might be saying something else, though. LOL

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Piano (or guitar). W/piano, you could get him a keyboard and headphones to keep the peace!

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Make someone's heart smile today.

Can dark get darker?

If he wants to do drums, you could get electronic drum pads that play like drums but have the benefits of a volume control (or headphones) and aren't as bulky as a traditional set. Plus, they are comparable in cost. My DH loved his.

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Homeschooling Mom to Daniel (13 Years), Andrew (10 Years), Stephen (8 Years) and Emily (4 Years)