The ukulele is the perfect instrument to introduce your child to stringed instruments.

As an early (or first) instrument for children, ukuleles teach kids about music and music theory. A child can learn lessons about beat, harmony, melody, rhythm and tempo. The ukulele also helps children develop eye-hand coordination as well as independent movement of fingers. For any child who wants to eventually learn the guitar, starting with this small, fun and unique instrument makes the process much easier and less frustrating.

Ukuleles are one of the easiest instruments to learn. They have just four strings and the chords are simplistic enough not to require odd hand and finger movements. After learning about how to strum and pick, soon they will be making music on their own. So, what songs can we play?

Even with just two chords to begin with, children will love playing some of the classic songs, from “Row row row your boat” to “Old MacDonald”. They’ll also be able to play Happy Birthday to you on your next birthday.