violin lessons and my child

I didn't take violin until I was nine, but I did start piano at 3. My piano teacher was pretty regemented plus I had the benefit of having watched my siblings take lessons, so I don't remember ever not playing at a lesson. I learned violin in school and most kids started in first grade (5-6 year olds).

I'd say that at three you want to make sure that your child's lesson is short (20 minutes or so would be best, definitely no longer than 30 minutes). That should help with the attention span. Is it a group or individual lesson? That may make some difference. Also, you may want to explore looking for a different teacher. Music is no different than any other subject in that kids have different learning styles. It may be better to find a teacher that clicks better with your child, or who is better at holding his/her attention.

Also, maybe you should consider giving up on the violin if all else fails. There are some music schools that have more introductory music classes (things like recorders and orff instruments) where a child can learn to read music and learn basic theory while playing an instrument that is easier to master than the violin. You want to make it fun for the kids and if their attention is wandering or there is an unwillingness to participate it may be a bit more than he/she is ready for.

Hope this helps.

I think it might be better to find someone who is maybe a preschool teacher who can play the violin, or to find a program like Music Together, or perhaps Suzuki violin with a group of children the same age. Then, when your child is getting a little more advanced and can easily concentrate for 30 minutes in a traditional lesson, then find a teacher who is perhaps at a professional level of playing on the violin but might not be too interested in playing games and things like that in the lesson. Unfortunately I don't have any colleagues who fit the bill, but the Brooklyn Conservatory or Music Together may be able to hook you up.