Six Trees

I’ve been a piano teacher for three decades, which means some of my earlier students are probably old enough to be grandparents. One question I’m asked most often is, “How do I know my child is ready for piano lessons?” When I was new at this, the ability to tie shoes was a good sign of physical and mental readiness. But no one ties shoes anymore. Instead, I ask if the child can tell right from left. I ask them to count forwards and backwards. I ask them to recite the alphabet. I watch to see if they can sit still and pay attention for fifteen minutes, or if they’re distracted and fidgety. I ask why they want to learn to play. (Hint: “Because mom says I have to” isn’t a good sign.) Some kids are ready at five and others at eight. I’ve known several kids much older than that who may never be ready.