Piano Readiness Checklist

Many parents wonder, “What is the right age to start my child’s piano lessons?” The truth is, there is no universal “right” age because every child is unique.

This checklist of questions will help you determine your child’s readiness. I recommend waiting until you can confidently answer “yes” to all of these questions before beginning your child’s piano journey.

Are they expressing an interest in taking lessons?

  • Do they delight in music?

  • Do they sing and move when they hear it?

  • Are they curious about the instruments they see and hear?

Are their hands big enough?

  • Can they comfortably rest each finger on a white key right next to each other?

Are they showing fine motor development?

  • Can they touch each finger to their thumb?

  • Can they write their first and last name comfortably?

  • Can they hold a pencil (as opposed to holding it in a fist)?

  • Can they use scissors?

Are they showing pre-reading skills?

  • Can they read letters?

  • Can they read numbers?

Are they showing signs of resilience?

  • Can they tolerate not mastering something the first time?

  • Can they tolerate making a mistake?

  • Can they tolerate trying again?

Are they showing signs of focus and body control?

  • Can they sit still for a few minutes at a time?

  • Can they focus on a task for a few minutes at a time?

  • Can they follow a short series of directions?