Many of my readers and clients come to me for advice on gifts to give kids — their own, their boyfriend’s their girlfriend’s, their stepkids, etc.

Sometimes adults don’t have kids and think a Fender Rhodes guitar is a great idea for a two-year-old who exhibits a special affinity for Jeremiah Was A Bullfrog. They would be wrong.

Here are gifts I suggest for my readers’ musical kids:

1. Simple instruments: xylophone, drum, recorder and tambourine or other percussion instruments like maracas and a triangle are all great beginning elements of music that kids can fool around with and beat time to music with.

2. Generally, children should be about six or seven before they receive a an instrument on which they are going to be given lessons. Don’t break the bank on a first musical instrument for your child. Your child is most likely too small for an adult sized instrument. Some instruments come in child-sizes that your child can learn on, and if he or she likes the lessons, you can then plan on getting a full sized instrument in a year or two or three.

3. If you’re going to give your child music lessons, consult with the teacher BEFORE you buy your instrument. They may be able to give you good advice on what to buy, what not to buy and where to buy it.

4. For families with more than one kids, start a band with your children! Give them each a compatible instrument and costumes so that they can play and perform!