Choosing Your Child’s First Guitar: A Guitar Tutor’s Expert Advice

best-guitars-for-kids
As an affiliate, We may earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through links on this site. This includes programs like Amazon, Guitar Center, TrueFire, and others. Learn More

Finding a fun and rewarding hobby for your child can be challenging, especially with so many distractions like video games and endless screen time.

Are you looking for a fun and rewarding hobby for your child? If so, you might want to consider getting them a guitar. But how do you choose the right guitar for your child?

As a guitar teacher with 20 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial it is to select a guitar that matches your child’s age, size, and comfort level. The wrong guitar can make learning difficult, frustrating, and even discouraging.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find the perfect guitar for kids, whether they’re just starting out or ready to advance their skills. Let’s dive in!

What Is the Best Age to Learn Guitar?

When it comes to learning the guitar, there’s really no perfect age. Every child is different, and their readiness depends on several factors.

Is your kid musically inclined? Are you a family of musicians? Or do they need it in school? These aspects are just a few to consider when deciding the right time to introduce your child to the guitar.

That said, your children can learn how to strum a guitar without any proper chords as early as 4 years old while they may not grasp chords or technique right away. By age 6, they can usually handle more structured lessons and begin developing proper skills.

For many kids, 8 years old is an ideal time to start formal training, but true passion often emerges around age 12, when they may become more invested in playing regularly.

The key is to encourage their interest and let them progress at their own pace.

How To Choose A Good Guitar For A Child?

Buying your child a guitar without considering key factors can lead to frustration—both for you and your little one. To avoid that, here are the essentials to keep in mind when choosing the best guitar for your child.

best acoustic guitars for kids

1. The Type of Guitar

This is always the first thing you have to check when buying anything- the types available. While there aren’t many categories, each has its strengths and challenges.

Acoustic

These are the traditional 6-string guitars you often see people playing at picnics or road trips. Acoustic guitars are typically larger and have steel or bronze strings, which can be tough on small, inexperienced fingers.

However, the skill earned over time is unbeatable and a kid will find playing any other type of guitar super easy if he starts his guitar lesson on acoustic guitar. These are more affordable as well.

For child beginners, I recommend starting with a 1/2 or 3/4 sized acoustic guitar instead of a full-size guitar which would be bigger than your kid.

Classical

Classical guitars use nylon strings, which are softer on fingers, making them an excellent choice for beginners. Their broader necks are a bit harder to manage for small hands, but they are still generally easier to play than acoustic guitars.

Also Read: Difference Between Acoustic And Classical Guitar

Electric

The rocking sound that most children love is the contribution of electric guitars. Chances are your child will want to learn on electric guitars right away.

They are easier on the fingers because less pressure is required on the strings. However, they come with added expenses—you’ll need an amplifier and possibly other accessories, which can drive up the cost.
Still, if your child is drawn to rock music, an electric guitar could be the perfect choice.

Ultimately, the best type of guitar depends on your child’s preference. Let them choose the one that excites them most.

2. The Build of the Guitar

While there are countless guitars for children on the market, not all are made equal. Many inexpensive models are poorly constructed and won’t hold up to wear and tear.

It’s crucial to avoid toy-like, colorful models that may appeal to kids but lack durability. Look for guitars with a solid wooden body, as these will last longer and provide a better sound.

The varnished wooden guitars are a better choice in this case as you can completely see what it is made of- no chance to trick.

3. The Finish or Surface of the Guitar

Kids are often attracted to flashy, colorful guitars with graphics on them, but these can be deceiving. A laminated or varnished finish is more important than looks, as it protects the guitar from scratches and environmental factors.

If your child wants to personalize their guitar, let them add stickers later, rather than sacrificing quality for aesthetics.

4. The Action of the Guitar

The action refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. Apparently, the more the distance, the more pressure you have to put on the strings, which can be painful for small hands.

On the other hand, a low-action guitar is much easier for kids to play, as it reduces the amount of pressure needed. This is why always choose a guitar with low action for your kid to encourage smooth and comfortable learning.

5. The Accessories

When buying a guitar for your child, consider the accessories that come with it. Many beginner guitars come with a basic set of strings, a tuner, or even a gig bag.

While bundled packages can be convenient and cost-effective, always ensure the quality of the guitar itself isn’t compromised by focusing on the extras.

6. Price of the Guitar

Price is often a major concern when choosing a guitar for a child. Beginner guitars typically costs between $100 and $300, depending on the size, quality and brand.

But for kids, a budget of $50 to $200 is usually sufficient. This allows you to find a good quality instrument without overspending on something they may outgrow or lose interest in.

You should also look for a guitar that is easy to play, durable and has good sound. You can find some best deals online or at your local music store.

If you believe your child is committed to playing guitar, it may be worth investing in a higher-end model that offers better sound quality and durability. However, the most important factor is that the guitar is easy to play and built to last.

The bottom line? Choose a guitar that fits your budget while ensuring it provides a rewarding learning experience for your child. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but you do need a quality instrument that will inspire your child to keep playing.

What Size Guitar Should I Buy for My Child?

When choosing the best kids’ guitar, it’s essential to consider your child’s age and physical development.

For children aged 4 to 6 years, a 1/4 size guitar with an overall length of 30 inches is the perfect guitar to get them started. As they grow, kids between 6 and 8 years old can comfortably handle a 1/2 size guitar, which is typically around 34 inches in length.

Kids that are a bit older about 8 to 11 years old are suitable for guitars of 3/4 size with a length of 36 inches. At this stage, your child will be able to manage a more standard size while still benefiting from a smaller-scale instrument that fits their growing hands.

Children ten years older can then handle a 7/8 size guitar with an overall length of 39 inches. These guitars are often designed for women with smaller hands, but they can also work as guitars for children.

However, it’s important to note that kids could quickly outgrow a 7/8 size, so a full-size guitar might be a better long-term investment for a 12 year old, as the standard 4/4 size (length of 40 inches) will last them through their musical journey.

It is best if you make your kid hold the guitar and see if he can reach every part easily. So, you got your answer to “What size guitar is best for your child?”.

For better understanding, check out this video about different types and sizes of Guitar:

YouTube video

How to Measure Guitar Size?

Guitars no matter the type are measured in two different ways. It may be measured by its full length or its scale length. Naturally, to measure a guitar by its full length then you start your measurement from the bottom of the body to the top of your headstock.

And speaking of which, a guitar has three main parts, the body, neck, and headstock. Standard guitars will have a full-length size of 36 to 40 inches but most certainly not limited to that due to the vast designs of guitars both acoustic and electric.

But the full-length size of a guitar is not quite a good way to measure it. Just like what we mentioned, different manufacturers design their guitars differently. And so, that results in different neck size, body size, and headstock size going back to our 2 main parts.

This design difference would ultimately lead to a different feel and playability of a guitar. This is where measuring a guitar through its scale length comes into the picture.

When you measure a guitar using its scale, then you are just talking about measuring from the bridge to the nut. These are the parts where both your hands handle to play the guitar and so knowing its scale length gives you an idea as to how it would feel like to play.

Knowing both the full and scale length of a guitar would then allow you to judge whether it’s a kid’s guitar or for adults.

A full size guitar by the way should be about 38 inches in length and with a scale length of about 25.5 inches. Guitars will also vary in their number of frets which is a factor of their playability and what style of music you can play with them.

Standard classical guitars or even acoustic guitars will have 19 frets while electric guitars usually have 21 to 24 frets with some even reaching 27. This is important to know especially for lead guitarists if they want to achieve certain riffs, licks, or solos with the guitar they are about to purchase.

Our Recommended Guitar for Your Kid (Review)

1. Yamaha JR1 FG Junior Acoustic Guitar


Yamaha JR1 FG Junior 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar, Natural

  • Guitar Size: 3/4 size
  • Overall Length: 33.25″
  • Suitable For: 8-11 years old
  • Key Features: Spruce top, durable, perfect for both practice and performance.

If you’re looking for the best acoustic guitar for children or need a complete package for your kid’s first guitar, you can’t go wrong with the Yamaha JR1 FG Junior acoustic guitar.

The guitar is small and lightweight which suits young beginners and a great alternative for travelers as a lightweight travel guitar or as a campfire guitar. It produces a decent sound for its size that is not very loud but clear and warm.

I have used this guitar with some of my students and they loved the guitar for its low action and smaller body which makes it quite easy to learn.

This feedback from a satisfied customer highlights why the Yamaha JR1 is such a hit with budding guitarists and their parents:

I have a 9 year old who is on the smaller side and he is just learning guitar. His teacher recommended this specific one for him and this store. We are very happy with this guitar. It’s much easier for him to handle and makes nice sound.

Pros:

  • Outstanding brand reputation
  • Excellent build quality
  • Comes with a bundle of accessories that make it ready to play
  • Great value for the price

Cons:

  • The sound is not the loudest or brightest
  • Laminated instead of solid Sitka spruce top

2. Squier Mini Stratocaster Electric Guitar


Squier Mini Stratocaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Black, Laurel Fingerboard

  • Guitar Size: 3/4 size
  • Overall Length: 42″
  • Suitable For: 7-12 years old
  • Key Features: Lightweight, slim neck, three single coil pickups, perfect for learning rock and pop tunes.

If you are looking for an electric guitar that is easy to play and sounds great for your kids, you might want to consider the Squier Mini Stratocaster by Fender. This is a 3/4 size guitar version of the iconic Fender Stratocaster, which means it has a smaller body and shorter scale length (22.75 inches) that are ideal for younger players.

The build is perfect with strong and clever materials used. The three single-coil pickups deliver a classic Strat tone and tone control with a five-way switch for versatile sound shaping that can handle any style of music, from rock and roll to blues to pop.  

This Mini Stratocaster has a classic look and sound that will inspire your kids to practice and enjoy music, so you should definitely check out this Mini Strat.

Pros:

  • A very loud and warm tone
  • Excellent build quality
  • Great electric components
  • Good price

Cons:

  • Need tuning too often

3. Loog Mini Guitar (Acoustic & Electric)


Loog Mini Electric kids Guitar for Beginners built-in Amp Ages 3+ Learning App and Lessons Included Red

  • Guitar Size: 1/4 size
  • Overall Length: 22.2″ (Acoustic) & 22.1″ (Electric)
  • Suitable For: 4-7 years old
  • Key Features: 3-string design, compact and lightweight, built-in amp and speaker (Electric)

The Loog Mini Guitar, available in both acoustic and electric versions, is a simple and fun way to introduce music to kids aged 4 to 7 years. As a guitar teacher, I’ve seen a lot of toy instruments, but Loog truly stands out by being simple yet effective in making music fun for kids.

The Loog Mini Acoustic features a small scale (15.6″) and only 3 nylon strings, making it a great introduction to music without overwhelming young learners. The basswood body and maple neck are surprisingly durable for such a tiny instrument. This guitar’s lightweight build is perfect for a 4-year-old just starting out.

The Loog Mini Electric takes it a step further with a built-in amp and speaker, making it fun to play for classroom performances or solo practice. The 3-string design allows kids to quickly grasp chords, but it lacks the bass notes found in full 6-string models.

Both guitars excel in making music accessible, but the electric version shines in delivering a “rock” feel. If your child is serious about learning guitar, though, they may outgrow the limited range of 3 strings sooner than a full 6-string​s.

Check out our complete Loog Guitars review here.

Pros:

  • Comes with flashcards, an app, and video lessons
  • 3-String Setup makes it easier for young beginners
  • Perfect for little hands

Cons:

  • Limited growth potential
  • 3-string electric version is pricier than other 6-string kids guitar
  • Not ideal for formal lessons

4. Yamaha CGS102A Classical Guitar


Yamaha CGS102A Half-Size Classical Guitar - Natural

  • Guitar Size: 1/2 size
  • Overall Length: 34.25″
  • Suitable For: 5-8 years old
  • Key Features: Spruce top, balanced tone, playable and durable.

The Yamaha CGS102A Classical Guitar is specifically designed with kids in mind, offering a perfect balance of playability and sound quality that’s hard to beat in the children’s guitar market.

The 535 mm scale length and narrower body make playing guitar a breeze for small hands. Despite its compact size, the spruce top paired with meranti back and sides delivers a surprisingly balanced tone that’ll make your young rockstar feel like a pro from day one.

The genuine rosewood fretboard and bridge not only enhance the instrument’s tone but also provide an authentic playing experience crucial for developing proper technique.

This guitar for kids truly is an investment in your child’s musical journey, striking the perfect balance between quality and affordability.

To give you a real-world perspective on the Yamaha CGS102A, check out this review from a parent of a young kid:

My son is four and a half and he started guitar lessons. His teacher played it so beautifully and my son loved the guitar. For sure this instrument does not look and feel like a toy.

Pros:

  • Comfortable size for kids
  • Durable wood construction (meant to last)
  • Perfect tone and sound
  • Great value for money
  • Nice finish and great overall aesthetics

Cons:

  • Not as low tension as the others on our list

5. Ibanez GRGM21 Mikro Electric Guitar


Ibanez GRGM 6 String Solid-Body Electric Guitar, Right, Blue Burst (GRGM21MBLT)

  • Guitar Size: 3/4 size
  • Overall Length: 35.62″
  • Suitable For: 8-12 years old
  • Key Features: Maple neck, Jatoba fretboard, Infinity R pickups, 24 medium frets.

Everyone who’s ever picked up a guitar knows about Ibanez and their cool designs for guitars. The Ibanez GRGM21BKN Mikro electric guitar is perfectly suited for older kids, particularly those around 10 year old beginner who might find a full-sized instrument difficult to play.

This short-scale guitar has a 22.2-inch scale length, smaller compared to the standard 24.75 to 25.50 inches scale. Its low tension and compact size make it easy for your child to navigate the fretboard while still providing an authentic electric guitar experience.

What I love most about the Mikro is its Infinity pickups, which deliver tight, accurate sound with excellent dynamics – a rare find in the kids guitar market. This is perfect for practicing especially if you have an aspiring lead guitarist in the household.

In my experience, this guitar is an excellent choice for young players serious about learning electric guitar. It’s also a great option for experienced players looking for a portable guitar.

Pros:

  • Suited for actual lead guitar and performance practices
  • Signature Ibanez aesthetics
  • Great feel and easy to handle and play for the youngster
  • Long-lasting build

Cons:

  • It’s quite known to go off tune easily
  • Does not use a tremolo bar

6. Hohner HAG250P Classical Guitar

HOHNER 6 String Acoustic Guitar, Right Handed, Natural (HAG250P)

  • Guitar Size: 1/2 size
  • Overall Length: 30″
  • Suitable For: 4-7 years old
  • Key Features: Affordable, nylon strings, easy to tune, lightweight.

Scared that your kid may try out the guitar a few times then feel his sore fingers and give up altogether? Then, this Hohner HAG250P Classical guitar has your back. Whether your child continues to play or decides to give up (chances are low), you do not lose much as this 1/2 size guitar is quite affordable.

This is something you can buy as just a guitar to learn on. The guitar has a solid build quality that can withstand the wear and tear of kids’ playing.

The nylon strings are gentle on tiny fingers, and its light weight makes it easier for children to handle. The string quality is decent, but you may want to replace them with better ones after some time.

Its simplicity and affordability make it ideal for parents looking for a basic yet functional starter guitar. It has received many positive reviews from customers who praised its quality, sound, and value. 

Pros:

  • The cheapest guitar on our list
  • Suitable for preschoolers and middle childhood
  • Nylon strings are gentle on the fingers

Cons:

  • May need frequent tuning
  • Too small for older or taller kids
  • May not have enough volume for some players

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Choose the Right Guitar Lessons for Your Child?

Acoustic Guitars For Children

If you have decided to buy a guitar for your child, you might be wondering whether they need guitar lessons as well. The answer depends on how they like to learn and what they want to achieve.

Private guitar instructions can give your kid one-on-one attention and feedback from a professional teacher. They can help your kid learn proper technique, musical expression and confidence. But they can also be costly, time-consuming and hard to find.

Online guitar tuition can let your kid learn from videos, apps or websites at their own time and pace. They can offer more variety, flexibility and affordability than private lessons. Some popular online platforms are Jam Play, TrueFire, Fender Play and Justin Guitar. However, they may not offer the same level of interaction, motivation and accountability as private lessons.

Ultimately, the best guitar lessons for your little one are the ones that suit their needs, preferences and budget. You can also combine both private and online lessons to get the best of both worlds.

Is A Smaller Guitar Easier To Play?

Yes, smaller guitars for kids are relatively easier to play and so they are ideal to practice on. Although we are talking about children probably 12 years old below as teenagers are better off practicing using a full-sized guitar if they want to be accustomed to it fast.

Small body guitars can be like training wheels for aspiring guitarists and they are also easier to handle, carry, and are relatively lightweight.

Does Hand Size Matter for Guitar?

It won’t matter much at all. Even full-sized guitars can be handled and played by people with relatively smaller hand sizes and most especially kids.

You may choose a smaller guitar for children below 12 or 10 years old but they will soon adjust and flex their hands and fingers to accommodate the fretboard of a guitar.

About the Author

guitar teacher
Music Teacher |  + posts

Gustavo is a music teacher and classical guitar player from Brazil, currently residing in Dublin, Ireland. He holds a graduate degree in Classical Guitar Performance from the Federal University of Pelotas. In 2020, Gustavo successfully completed a Master's degree in Sound Engineering from the Academy of Sound in Ireland.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top