Hi there—
We’re a team of piano teachers who work with young beginners every day, and we want to share something we’ve learned along the way: You don’t need to be a musician to help your child succeed at piano. You just need to show up in small, intentional ways.
Whether your child is just getting started or you’re thinking about enrolling them, here are five parent-tested ways to prepare your child for piano and help them thrive from day one.
1. Create a Piano Routine
Kids do best with structure, especially when learning something new. Set a consistent weekly lesson time and designate a space for practice.
- Keep the area tidy and inviting
- Use visual cues like a practice chart
- Start with short, daily sessions (10–15 minutes is great!)
2. Encourage Exploration
Let your child explore the piano outside of formal lessons. You might be surprised how much they teach themselves through curiosity!
- Invite them to make up their own songs
- Play musical games or apps
- Listen to famous piano pieces together
The San Francisco Symphony’s Kids site is a great place to explore instruments and composers as a family.
3. Be Present—Even Briefly
You don’t need to hover, but early learners do benefit from your presence.
- Sit nearby during practice or lessons
- Offer praise for effort, not just results
- Ask what they learned and listen to a performance
4. Embrace the Imperfect
Learning piano involves wrong notes, wiggly fingers, and sometimes frustration. That’s okay.
- Remind your child that mistakes help them grow
- Share your own stories of learning something new
- Let them know you’re proud of their effort
5. Stay in Touch with the Teacher
We love when parents check in! Feel free to ask:
- What should my child focus on this week?
- Do you notice any challenges we can work on at home?
- How can I support them between lessons?
Want more early piano strategies? We recommend reading our post on starting piano lessons on the right foot for a roadmap to success.
FAQ: Getting Started with Piano
When should my child start lessons?
Most kids are ready between ages 5–7. If they can count to 10, follow directions, and sit for 15 minutes, they’re likely ready.
Do I need a real piano?
A full-sized keyboard with weighted keys is a great start. You can always upgrade as your child progresses.
How long before they play real songs?
Often within the first month! Simple melodies like “Mary Had a Little Lamb” help build confidence early.
