Working with a voice instructor can benefit anyone who wants to learn how to sing. There is no right or wrong time to start these lessons, but the type of instruction might vary depending on the age of each student. To truly maximize vocal lessons for your child, it helps to understand the changes their voice goes through during adolescence and how it impacts their ability to sing.

What to Know About Vocal Lessons at Different Ages

How do kids’ vocal cords change?

During puberty, the vocal cords thicken and develop fully. This results in males being able to hit lower notes and helps females reach a full range of notes. During the transition, the voice generally cracks or may sound unsteady, but it usually results in a stronger singing voice afterward.

How can I tell when my child’s voice has settled?

You can normally tell when a child has reached puberty when their voice begins to crack or sound deeper. The process usually begins at any time between ages 10 and 14 and lasts for several months.

Once the cracking or unsteadiness subsides, you’ll likely notice a lower-pitched or stronger voice, which means the vocal cords have strengthened.

What are the benefits of voice lessons before puberty?

You don’t have to wait until your child is through puberty to start voice lessons. In fact, a voice instructor can help kids strengthen their vocal cords gradually and learn basic musical concepts like breathing and recognizing different notes. This allows them to be ready to fully grow their singing talents by the time their voice develops.

How do vocal lessons differ pre- and post-puberty?

Before puberty, voice instructors are likely to focus on songs made up of mainly high notes, since this is easier for kids without fully developed vocal cords. Once they’ve hit puberty, kids can learn songs with a variety of notes and registers.

Additionally, both boys and girls are focused on high notes pre-puberty, but afterward, boys are generally able to reach lower notes and girls can try out a variety of styles to find their strengths.

If you’re looking for a voice instructor to help your child fully develop their vocal skills, contact New York Dance Center in Chester. The locally-owned and operated studio offers children’s dance classes and vocal instruction for kids of all ages. The team works closely with each student to help them master each technique and achieve their individual goals. Visit the website for a schedule of upcoming classes, or call (845) 615-1433 to book.