Studies have shown the immense benefits of letting kids learn musical instruments early. From patience building to boosted self-esteem, the list is endless.
The guitar is one of the world’s most-played musical instruments and is perfect for kids looking to learn a musical instrument. But for kids, the guitar’s popularity is not enough. You’ll have to provide them with the right type of guitar, and most times, it all comes down to the size.
Size brews comfortability which results in enjoyment, and for kids, especially 10 years old who lose interest quickly, the perfect size is paramount.
So what size of the guitar is perfect for a 10-year-old?
Ideally, a 36 in (91 cm) guitar will suit a 10-year-old kid. Though it could vary for kids, most 10-year-olds should be able to use a 36-inch guitar comfortably.
Before choosing a guitar size for a 10-year-old, there are many options to consider, we’ll discuss them here. We’ll also explore the importance of selecting the right size.
Importance of Choosing the Right Guitar Size
Even as an adult, learning a musical instrument can be very daunting. Now imagine how it must be for kids.
Learning to play the guitar requires a lot of concentration and determination from the child. As a parent, you’ll need to do everything to ensure they stay focused, and one of the ways to do that is by making sure they are comfortable while playing.
That’s why it’s important that kids play the right size. If a guitar’s too big or small, the child will not be motivated to pick it up because they simply don’t enjoy it.
Also, a bigger guitar will most likely result in the kid’s failure to wrap their hands around the guitar’s neck. Even if they manage through this, they might end up learning bad techniques. It will also hinder their development and reduce their passion for the instrument.
So while you debate the guitar that’ll be perfect for your 10-year-old, do not forget the size.
85% of students quit learning a musical instrument after two years. That’s why it’s crucial that the kid feels comfortable with their instrument so that they wouldn’t quit.
What Size of Guitar Is Good for a 10-Year-Old?
Contrary to public belief, choosing a guitar’s size has to do more with height than with age.
Some kids grow taller or shorter than their age, so using only age to judge their guitar size might be wrong.
But generally, the average height of 10-year-olds is 53-55 inches. So for a 10-year-old, a 36 inches (91 cm) guitar would be perfect.
This is ¾ the size of a normal guitar and is usually meant for kids that are almost ready to use the standard guitar.
Luckily, the 36-inch guitar is the most popular guitar for kids because it’s believed that kids start playing the guitar well when they are old enough to use the 36 inches size guitar. So unlike smaller sizes, you’ll have a wide array of options to choose from.
Finally, some kids can comfortably use an adult-sized guitar at 10, so it’s partly up to them.
Tips for Choosing the Right Guitar Size for Your Kid
There’s a chance you won’t be the one teaching the kid how to play and if you are having a problem selecting the right guitar size for them, ask their teacher.
Due to experience, the teacher will know the suitable size for the kid. Most guitar teachers even offer free trial lessons; you can take your child to the trial lesson before buying the guitar.
The Bottom Line
A 10-year-old kid that wants to learn the guitar needs a lot of support because the guitar is not the easiest instrument to learn. One of the ways to support them is by buying the right guitar for them, and most times, it all comes down to the guitar’s size.
An ideal guitar size for a 10-year-old is a 36 inches guitar which is ¾ of the standard guitar.
Ensure you choose the right size so your kid can enjoy learning the guitar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some kids are taller than their age and can handle a full-size guitar. However, this is not advisable as they might struggle and end up learning bad techniques.
A 12-year-old child can play a full-size guitar with little or no problems.
