I created review of the best musical instruments for children with ADHD, so you don’t have to break your brain or bank trying to figure out which instrument your child would enjoy the most.
Playing musical instruments has been a joyous part of my life for roughly 28 years! I am a self-taught musician and have been in the chorus all my youth. It’s been a journey filled with fun and excitement, playing just about everything you can imagine!
My parents bought me my first musical instrument for Christmas at 5, a piano. I remember the joy I felt when I first played a tune on it. I then moved on to learning the guitar, each instrument adding a new dimension to my musical journey.
Learning many musical instruments has been a source of great pride and accomplishment. It has unlocked my full creativity mode, helping me write songs to sing.
My musical YouTube channel is a testament to the joy and pride of mastering an instrument.
On top of that, I am a single parent of a child with ADHD, my son Anthony. I have helped Anthony successfully find instruments that help his focus and creativity.
I’ve seen firsthand how music has positively impacted his life, and I’m excited to share our journey with you.
Anthony loves to play various instruments, making him feel happier and more peaceful. However, he has a favorite that I will mention towards the end of this post!
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Musical Instruments Free The ADHD Mind
While writing this musical instrument review, I wanted to dive into each instrument so that you’ll know its functions and whether it is the right fit for your child before purchasing.
My local music store, the Guitar Center, is impressive. It has so many options and a variety of musical instruments that it can truly be overwhelming to choose just one!
However, playing all types of instruments is fun, and using your mouth, hands, or feet lets you make any sound!
You will also find YouTube videos linked to this guide under each musical instrument to help you hear and listen to the instruments! You’re welcome!
However, stick through until the end so I can tell you the best instrument your child should start with today.
More great tips!
Please have your child join a chorus or band at school to inspire their musical needs and gain consistent discipline. They’ll make friends who are also music lovers, learn a variety of musical instruments, and practice as well.
After all, practice makes progress!
Here Are Some of the Best Instruments for Children With ADHD, Along With Their Benefits
1. Guitar
- Playing the guitar is a lot of fun, and the best guitar to start with is an electric guitar because of the nylon strings versus the one that I have, which is an acoustic guitar with steel strings that are much harder on the fingers.
- Benefits: The guitar encourages creativity, rhythm, and hand-eye coordination. Its portability allows for flexible practice sessions.
- For the best free lessons on YouTube, I recommend Marty Music. It started me on my journey and will help your child learn songs quickly.
2. Keyboard Piano
- Playing the Piano sparks creativity and increases dopamine. It’s amazing how easily children can learn “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and other great songs. A light-up keyboard piano is a great option for children with ADHD who need the focus mode and memory benefits.
- Benefits: Develops cognitive skills, improves hand-eye coordination, and fosters patience and focus. The best part is that it is much more affordable than a grand piano!
- This Youtube tutorial for beginner piano lessons is awesome!
3. Midi Controller for Older Kids
- A MIDI controller is a device that allows you to control digital music software on a computer. It’s like a physical instrument interacting with your computer to create sounds.
- Benefits: MIDI controllers are versatile tools significantly enhancing music production and performance capabilities. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned musician, a MIDI controller can help unlock your creativity and take your music to the next level.
- This great tutorial will allow you to see the world of Midi controllers using FL Studio.
Sources and related content:
- https://sloanschoolofmusic.com/best-instruments-for-adhd/
- https://www.additudemag.com/ta-dah/
- https://www.smartkidswithld.org/getting-help/adhd/optimize-the-adhd-brain-with-music/
4. Drums
- My older son played the drums and had so much fun. Although it was very loud, it was a great outlet to let off some steam while trying something new. The drums are a little more complicated because there are more things to focus on, but it’s fun for children of all ages who love a good challenge.
- Benefits: Provides an outlet for energy, improves motor skills, and enhances rhythm and timing.
- Check out these expert drum tips on YouTube to get your child motivated and eager for free drum lessons!
5. Ukulele
- The ukulele is a very soothing instrument that takes you to the islands of Hawaii. If you don’t want to start with a guitar first, I recommend a wooden ukulele with nylon strings.
- Benefits: It is easy to learn, portable, and encourages creativity. Its smaller size can be less intimidating for younger children.
- Check out these amazing beginner tutorials by Marty Music for ukulele lessons on YouTube, where your child can practice daily and master their skills.
6. Harmonica
- The harmonica has a soothing blues tone and can be played anywhere, just like the ukulele and the guitar. However, this instrument requires you to use your mouth, which requires blowing in and out to create the sounds you like.
- Benefits: Portable, easy to learn, and encourages breath control and focus.
- These excellent YouTube tutorials on playing the harmonica were a game changer for my sons, and I know your children will also enjoy them very much. The lessons are fun for kids to follow, and you’ll have a harmonica player in no time.
7. Tambourine
- The tambourine is fun with its bells that jingle when you pack it. If your child wants to learn a rhythmic pattern that enables them to dance, this is the instrument for them.
- Benefits: Encourages rhythm and movement and is easy to play for children of all ages.
- Tambourine lovers, here’s a great YouTube video to get you on the right rhythm.
8. Djembe
- This instrument is the best small and portable drum for those drumming fans to learn. We received our Djembe as a gift from my older son’s grandfather. The beats sound very Caribbean and give a new sense of playing a pattern with a cool beat.
- Benefits: Encourages rhythm and movement and is easy to play for children of all age
- Here is a YouTube tutorial that is the best I’ve seen so far!
9. Handpan
- The handpan can be fun and engaging for individuals with ADHD, helping them develop their musical abilities, improve their focus and concentration, and express themselves creatively.
- Check out this great YouTube channel of handpan lessons to get you started on your handpan journey!
10. Microphone
- Do you have an inspiring singer in your home? Perhaps your child has a musical ear and can pick up any sound. Grab them a portable karaoke microphone and stir some karaoke nights to your favorite tunes!
- Benefits: Uplifting voices for self-expression are fantastic for kids with ADHD. Watch your child come to life and pick up a unique and beautiful voice. My son and I love to sing together!
- Here is a fun YouTube channel that helps you learn how to channel your child’s best voice!
Additional Considerations
- Child’s Interests: Choose an instrument that aligns with the child’s interests and personality.
- Teacher’s Approach: A patient and encouraging teacher can significantly impact a child’s musical journey.
- Start Small: Begin with simple songs and gradually increase the complexity as the child progresses.
- Celebrate Progress: Positive reinforcement can motivate children with ADHD to continue practicing.
Remember, the best instrument is the one that sparks joy and encourages learning.
The best musical instrument for a child with ADHD depends on the child’s individual interests and learning style. However, specific instruments can be particularly engaging and beneficial for children with ADHD due to their sensory appeal, rhythmic nature, and potential for creative expression.
Here is a Recap of What Might be Well-suited Instruments for Children With ADHD
Percussion Instruments:
- Drums: Drums offer a physical and auditory outlet for energy, rhythm, and expression. The repetitive nature of drumming can be calming and focus-enhancing for some children.
- Tambourine: The tambourine is a versatile percussion instrument consisting of a frame, often made of wood or plastic, with pairs of small metal jingles called “zills.” You can play the tambourine by shaking, striking, or tapping.
- Djembe: This West African drum is versatile and can be played with hands or mallets, providing different tactile experiences.
- Handpan: A handpan is a relatively new musical instrument resembling a steel drum or a UFO. It’s made of steel and has a unique shape that allows for beautiful, resonant tones when struck with the hands or mallets.
Keyboard Piano Instruments:
- Piano or Keyboard: Keyboards offer a structured learning environment with visual cues, making it easier to follow patterns and learn music theory.
- Midi Controller for Older Kids: Do you have a future beatmaker in your home? A Midi controller is the way to go, allowing your child to create thousands of beats and elevate their musical abilities.
String Instruments:
- Guitar: The guitar is a popular choice for its portability and versatility. It can be played solo or in a band, offering social interaction and a sense of belonging.
- Ukulele: Smaller and easier to learn than a guitar, the ukulele is a great starting point for young musicians.
Mouth and Vocal Instruments:
- Harmonica: The harmonica, also known as a French harp or mouth organ, is a small, portable wind instrument that produces sound when air is blown or drawn through its reeds. It’s a popular choice for many genres of music, including blues, folk, country, rock, and jazz.
- Microphone: Voices move the world and you can take them anywhere with you. Grab a portable microphone and watch your child sing their heart out while improving day by day!
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Instrument:
- Child’s Interests: Consider the child’s preferences and what excites them.
- Learning Style: Some children may benefit from visual learning (e.g., Piano), while others may prefer kinesthetic learning (e.g., drums).
- Attention Span: Shorter practice sessions with frequent breaks may be more effective for children with ADHD.
- Teacher’s Approach: A patient and encouraging teacher can significantly impact a child’s musical journey.
The best instrument I have found to help children with ADHD!
However, the best instrument to start with that I have found works for ADHD is the piano keyboard. Learning and playing the Piano is entertaining. You can make any sound and song using a piano.
Many apps can help your child, and free YouTube piano lessons are available.
Multiple piano keyboards have a light-up function to create a stellar learning experience.
Watch your child jam away for hours with a light-up keyboard piano. I also owned one when I was a child. The Casio light-up keyboard piano is a great way to learn music!
Moreover, the choice of instrument your child wants to play is yours. Have fun with this epic guide to make your decision.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the ideal instrument for your child is to try different options and see what resonates with them. Encourage experimentation and let them explore their musical interests.
Remember, music can be a powerful tool for self-expression, emotional regulation, and cognitive development for children with ADHD.
Conclusion
Children with ADHD acquire a consistent routine, and music can become a significant part of it. Experiment with different instruments and watch their creativity flourish.
It is fun to try new things, and you can join your child in the fun. YouTube has epic guides that I linked throughout this post to help you and your child see each instrument’s unique sounds.
Have fun watching your little ones grow with a newfound passion for musical instruments! Click this form here so I can help you with your content writing today!
Marlenny Linda is more than just a writer; she's a passionate bilingual advocate for families with children with medical conditions. With a background in teaching English (TESOL/TEFL) and a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts, she crafts engaging, SEO-optimized content that informs, inspires, and connects with these families.
Her specialty is long-form content, where she dives deep into the topics that matter most, from navigating educational resources to fostering a fulfilling life for your child. Marlenny's innovative approach keeps audiences engaged and coming back for more.
