We get this question all the time: “How often should my child be practicing guitar?” And our answer? It depends—but we’re not going to leave you hanging. Below is a clear, realistic practice framework based on what we see working for students in our private lessons across all ages and experience levels.
This post is structured as a week-by-week routine planner, not just a list of tips. If you’re new to this, print it, hang it near your child’s practice space, and adjust as they grow.
Week 1–4: The Habit-Building Phase
Ideal for: Total beginners ages 5–9
Practice Goal: 10–15 minutes, 4–5 days per week
What to focus on:
- Learning posture and hand position
- Playing short exercises or 2–3 string songs
- Making practice “daily-ish” without pressure
Tip: A practice calendar with stickers works wonders in this phase.
Week 5–12: Growing Finger Strength & Confidence
Practice Goal: 15–20 minutes, 5 days per week
What to focus on:
- Clean chord transitions
- Down-up strumming patterns
- Memorizing simple melodies
- Reviewing short teacher-made assignments
At this point, your child’s fingers are stronger, and they’re starting to feel like a real player.
Month 4 and Beyond: Structured Practice with More Freedom
Practice Goal: 20–30 minutes, 5–6 days per week
What to include:
- Warm-up: Finger exercises or scales
- Skill work: Chords, new songs, rhythm training
- Review & Fun: Something they want to play
Want to understand how long it actually takes to reach certain playing goals? Our music lesson timeline blog breaks that down by instrument.
What About Kids Who Don’t Want to Practice?
We’ve been there. The key isn’t force—it’s structure. Try this:
- Keep the guitar out and visible
- Use a visual timer
- Create a “first, then” system (e.g., first guitar, then screen time)
- Join them—sit nearby and listen or clap along
Consistency, not perfection, is the goal.
FAQ
Does my child need to practice every single day?
No. Aim for 5 days per week. Breaks are healthy and help avoid burnout.
What if they say guitar hurts their fingers?
That’s normal in the beginning. Start slow, check their form, and know that calluses build quickly with consistent short practice.
Is 10 minutes really enough?
Yes—for beginners. The goal is to build a habit first. Time increases naturally as interest and stamina grow.
Final Thoughts
Creating a child practice guitar routine that works isn’t about strict rules—it’s about making space for music to become a regular, joyful part of your child’s week. With the right pacing, clear expectations, and encouragement, guitar can stay fun and productive.
For more on fostering good musical habits, this resource from Music Educators Journal offers helpful research on motivation and practice in young learners.
