What Size Guitar Does My Child Need?

If you’re buying your child their first guitar, one of the biggest questions is: What size should we get?

It’s a smart question - because an oversized guitar can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and even lead to bad playing habits. The good news? There are guitars sized just for kids, and getting the right one makes a huge difference in how quickly (and happily) they learn.

🎸 Kids’ Guitar Sizes: A Quick Breakdown

Here’s a general guideline based on age and height:

• 1/4 Size - Ages 4–6

• 1/2 Size - Ages 6–8

• 3/4 Size - Ages 9–12

• Full Size - Ages 12+ or taller kids

These aren’t exact rules—arm length and hand size matter too—but they’re a great starting point. When in doubt, a 3/4-size acoustic or short-scale electric is often the sweet spot for most young beginners.

🧠 A Few Buying Tips for Parents:

• Comfort = Confidence: If it feels too big, it probably is. A guitar should rest easily on the leg and be easy to reach around.

• Try Before You Buy (If Possible): Let your child hold and strum the guitar before you commit—comfort and confidence go a long way.

• Don’t Overspend Up Front: A quality used or refurbished guitar is often the best value. It gets them started without breaking the bank.

🎯 Our Recommendation?

Start with a well-set-up, kid-friendly guitar that’s easy to play. Whether it’s an acoustic, electric, or classical nylon-string, the right size will help your child actually enjoy playing—and stick with it.

Need Help Choosing the Right Size?

At Morris Guitar Company, we help parents find the perfect first guitar for their child - based on fit, feel, and budget. We carry a range of used and refurbished kid-friendly guitars, all professionally inspected and ready to play. Contact us for a recommendation!