Help! My Child is Left Handed

As a parent of a left-handed child, you may be wondering whether they should play the guitar right-handed or left-handed. This decision can have a significant impact on their learning experience and overall progress. Let's explore the factors to consider when making this choice.

Consider Their Dominant Hand Strength

One important factor to consider is your child's dominant hand strength. Playing the guitar requires dexterity, coordination, and strength in both hands. If your child is naturally more comfortable and coordinated with their left hand, they may find it easier to play a left-handed guitar.

Brain Hemisphere Dominance

Research suggests that left-handed individuals often have a more dominant right hemisphere of the brain, which is associated with creativity and artistic abilities. This could potentially give your left-handed child a unique advantage when playing the guitar left-handed, as it may better align with their brain's natural tendencies.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Another crucial aspect to consider is the ergonomics and comfort of playing the guitar. Left-handed guitars are designed with the strings reversed, making it more intuitive and comfortable for left-handed players. This can enhance your child's playing experience and reduce the risk of developing bad habits or discomfort from playing a right-handed guitar.

Availability of Left-Handed Guitars

While left-handed guitars are less common than right-handed ones, the availability of left-handed instruments has significantly increased in recent years. Many music stores now offer a variety of left-handed guitar options, making it easier for your child to find a suitable instrument that matches their dominant hand.

Consult with a Music Teacher

If you're still unsure about whether your left-handed child should play the guitar right or left-handed, consider consulting with a music teacher or guitar instructor. They can provide valuable insights based on your child's individual needs, abilities, and preferences, helping you make an informed decision that will set your child up for success in their musical journey.

Ultimately, the decision of whether your left-handed child should play the guitar right or left-handed depends on various factors, including their dominant hand strength, brain hemisphere dominance, ergonomics, and the availability of left-handed guitars. By carefully considering these factors and seeking guidance from music professionals, you can help your child choose the best path to unleash their musical potential.