Studies have proven that children, who are fluent in a musical instrument, excel academically well above their peers. Musical Instruments can enhance a child intellectually, emotionally, physically and even socially. If you have a musical little one on your hands, tap into that creativity and look for a gift that will bring out the Mozart in your child.
(Ages 3 to 4)
Musical Instruments are a popular gift idea for children. At the age of 3, hand-eye coordination is advanced enough to attempt actual music and not just noise. Perfect ideas for this age group are electric guitars, acoustic guitars, and instrument sets, which contain numerous hand held instruments.
Electric Guitars
Barbie Jam with Me Rock Star Guitar is perfect for girls who want to “rock-out” with Barbie. It comes with 7 built in songs, and a headset with a microphone so your little rocker can sing along. $32.99
Acoustic Guitars
For a more realistic guitar experience, Disney makes acoustic guitars featuring different characters including Cars, SpongeBob, Hannah Montana, Fairies and Toy Story. The prices can range from $29.99 up to $49.99 depending on the retailer. Their guitars feature steel strings and natural wood for the best quality tone.
Instrument Sets – $19.99 to 29.99
Melissa and Doug are best known for their wood products. But they also make numerous musical instruments with the same standard of education as their other products. Their 10-piece band in a box set is perfect for the novice musician. It comes with maracas, cymbals, triangle and rhythm sticks, and a tambourine. Melissa and Doug also make a learning piano as well as a child-size Wooden Grand piano
Disney is on the bandwagon with musical instruments as well. Their eight piece sets comes with 2 cymbals, guitar, shaker, drum, drumsticks and a trumpet. This set comes in Disney Princess, Princess and the Frog, and Toy Story series.
(Ages 5-7)
As a child’s maturity level increases, so do their musical abilities. This age is the perfect time to introduce more advanced instruments.
Keyboards – $29.99 to $99.99
When opting for a keyboard, you have one major decision to make. Do you choose a character themed keyboard, or a more traditional digital keyboard? Almost every keyboard comes standard with different rhythms, instruments sounds, volume and tempo controls, and record and playback functions. Be sure to buy one that has an AC adapter, otherwise you will be buying new batteries every week.
Karaoke Machines – $19.99 to 149.99
There is a vast array of karaoke machines made by almost every toy producer as well as every character on television today. With prices ranging from the low $20’s up to $150, and different options, such as color monitors, graphics players, voice control, advanced memories, and speaker quality, you are bound to find one for every budget.