Piano lessons can be wonderful for children. Learning to play the piano as a first instrument can open their eyes to a whole world of music, making it easier to play other instruments later on. After a year or two of lessons, your child's teacher will likely recommend that you buy them their own piano. This can seem like a tough task if you are not familiar with buying musical instruments. But if you follow the buying tips below, you'll find a piano that serves your child well.

1. Buy an 88-Key Piano

Pianos come in two sizes: the standard piano has 88 keys and "small" pianos have 61 keys. It may seem like you should buy the smaller piano and upgrade later, but that strategy will backfire. It won't be long before your child wants to play music that utilizes the higher and lower notes that are not found on a 61-key piano. You do not want the small size to hold them back from practicing certain music at home. Not to mention, replacing a piano is expensive. Just go with an 88-key model from the very beginning.

2. Opt for Weighted Keys

Parents often wonder whether they should buy an acoustic piano or a digital piano. This does not matter that much as long as you buy one with weighted keys. Digital pianos with light keys feel very different to play than a traditional, acoustic piano with weighted keys. If your child tries to play on a non-weighted keyboard at home then a weighted one at lessons, they may struggle to make the switch. To reiterate, there are two good options here: a standard acoustic piano or a digital piano with weighted keys. 

3. Be Careful When Buying Used

You can save a bundle by buying a used piano, but you need to be very careful. Pianos are easily damaged, and the damage causes them to go out of tune. If the piano you buy was exposed to changes in humidity, was ever stored on its back, or was otherwise not properly maintained, it won't make the correct sounds. Have a professional inspect a used piano before you agree to buy it, and do not buy one that's in less-than-amazing condition. Your child can't learn to play well on an out-of-tune instrument.

Follow the tips above to ensure you buy your child the right piano. If you need additional guidance, reach out to their piano teacher.