Lap dulcimer for kids
This simple, folk-style instrument provides a unique and accessible introduction to string music, perfect for creative play.
Kids & Baby
String instruments
6 kinds worth knowing, 8 picks, and what to check before you buy.
People buying in this category are usually grandparents, aunts and uncles, or parents looking for something musical that lasts longer than a noisy toy. The ones that get played are easy to make sound good from the first minute, like a lap dulcimer or a zither that uses slide-under song sheets. A string instrument works well as a gift when it fits the child's age, hand size and patience. Think about whether they want to strum along to songs they already know, or have their first real try at learning an instrument. Choose something that stays in tune, sits comfortably on a lap or table, and comes with enough guidance that a grown-up doesn't need to know music to help.
Kind 1 of 6
Lap dulcimers for easy first melodies
A lap dulcimer is a long, narrow folk instrument that rests across the knees. You play it by strumming while pressing the strings against frets. Many are tuned so that almost any note sounds pleasant, which makes them good for kids who get discouraged quickly and for families who want to play together. Before buying, check the length against the child's lap, whether the frets are marked or numbered, and whether a songbook or tab sheets come with it. Tuning pegs should turn smoothly and hold their position.
Kind 2 of 6
Zithers with song sheets underneath
A children's zither is a flat, box-shaped instrument that lies on a table or lap. Many come with paper song sheets that slide under the strings, so the child just plucks along a printed path without reading music. That suits younger kids and grandchildren who like finishing a whole song on day one. Check how many song sheets are included and whether more are easy to find, how stable the tuning is, and whether a tuning key comes in the box. A sturdy wooden body usually sounds warmer than a thin one.
Toy zither
An easy-to-play string instrument that allows children to create beautiful melodies by simply plucking numbered or color-coded strings.
Kind 3 of 6
Lap harps and miniature harps
A lap harp is a small harp held upright on the knees or set on a table, often with song sheets like a zither. It looks special when it's unwrapped, which makes it a popular gift for a niece or granddaughter who likes things that feel a bit grown-up. Miniature toy harps are simpler and more decorative. Check the number of strings, whether the instrument stands steadily on its own, and whether the tuning pins can be adjusted with the included key. Fewer strings are easier to keep in tune.
Miniature harp toy
A charming and accessible way for children to discover the enchanting sounds of a harp, fostering creativity and musical appreciation.
Kind 4 of 6
Toy violins and children's violin sets
Toy violins run from simple play pieces to fractional-size violins sold as starter sets with a bow, rosin and a case. A play version suits younger kids who mostly want to copy what they have seen. A proper set suits a child who is starting lessons or asking to. Violin sizes go by the child's arm length, so check the size chart or ask the parents first. Also make sure the bow hair is usable and the set includes rosin, since a bow without rosin makes almost no sound.
Children's violin set
This miniature violin allows young enthusiasts to explore classical melodies and develop fine motor skills and musical ear.
Kind 5 of 6
Toy banjos and other folk strings
A toy banjo has a round drum-like body and a bright, twangy sound that kids tend to love. Small banjos and kids' mandolins suit children who like to perform, march around or play along to country and folk songs. Check whether the strings are nylon or metal, since nylon is gentler on small fingertips. Look for real tuning pegs instead of fixed strings if you want it to keep sounding right. A strap is handy for playing while standing.
Toy banjo
Introduce the unique sound of the banjo to children with a simplified, durable instrument designed for playful learning and rhythm.
Kids' mandolin
This compact string instrument offers a bright, cheerful tone, perfect for children exploring diverse musical styles and melodies.
Kind 6 of 6
Beginner ukulele kits and first guitars
A beginner ukulele kit usually includes the ukulele, a gig bag, a clip-on tuner, spare strings and a chord chart. For a tween or an older child who wants to learn real songs, a ukulele is one of the easiest instruments to start on, since four nylon strings take little finger strength. A kids' acoustic guitar is the next step up for children who already know they want guitar. Check that the ukulele is a soprano or concert size, that a tuner is included, and that the guitar's scale length suits the child's height.
Beginner ukulele kit
An ideal entry point into string instruments, the ukulele offers a gentle learning curve for aspiring musicians of all ages.
Kids' acoustic guitar
This scaled-down guitar introduces young musicians to basic chords and rhythm, fostering early musical exploration and creativity.
How to choose string instruments as a gift
- Match the instrument to the child's age: song-sheet zithers and harps for young kids, ukuleles and dulcimers for older ones.
- Check that a tuning key or clip-on tuner is included, because an out-of-tune instrument quickly ends up in a closet.
- Ask the parents whether lessons are planned before choosing a sized violin or guitar over a play instrument.
- Look for extra song sheets, chord charts or a songbook so the child has something to play right away.
- Choose nylon strings for younger players, since they are easier on small fingertips than metal strings.
Usually safe to skip
- Plastic look-alike instruments with fixed, untunable strings usually sound off within days and get set aside.
- Full-size adult instruments for small children are hard to hold and reach, which makes learning frustrating instead of fun.
- Oversized sets packed with accessories often skimp on the instrument itself, which is the part that actually gets played.
Questions people ask about string instruments
- What is the easiest string instrument for a child to learn?
- A zither or lap harp with slide-under song sheets is the easiest for young kids, since no music reading is needed. For older kids, a ukulele or lap dulcimer lets them play recognizable songs within a few sessions.
- What is the difference between a dulcimer and a zither?
- A lap dulcimer has frets and a fingerboard, and you press and strum it like a small guitar. A zither has no frets. Each string plays a single note and you pluck it directly, often by following a song sheet placed under the strings.
- What age is a ukulele good for?
- Many children can start around age five or six on a soprano ukulele, and tweens usually do well with a soprano or concert size. What matters most is whether the child can reach the frets and press the nylon strings comfortably.
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