What children can get from DJing
- Confidence. Learning a skill, then playing it to other people, is a real boost. Many young learners grow in confidence as their mixing improves.
- Focus. A good mix needs attention: listening carefully, counting beats and waiting for the right moment.
- Timing and rhythm. Beatmatching and phrasing train the ear to hear when things are in time and when they are not.
- Creativity. Choosing tracks, putting them in order and deciding how to blend them is a creative process, and every set is different.
- Something to work towards. A set to prepare and perform gives practice a purpose.
Screen time that is creative
DJing does involve a laptop or screen, but it is a very different kind of screen time from scrolling or watching videos. Children are making something, using their hands and ears, and solving small problems as they go. Many parents find that a welcome change.
What age can children start?
We teach from age 10. By then, most children can follow the beat, handle the controls and practise on their own between lessons. Every child is different, though, and one-to-one lessons let the pace fit the learner.
What to check before you book
Lessons for children should be safe, as well as fun. Questions worth asking any DJ teacher:
- Does the teacher hold an Enhanced DBS check?
- Have they had safeguarding training?
- Where will lessons take place, and can a parent be nearby?
- Is the music suitable for the child's age?
- Is there a clear plan, and a goal at the end?
Looking after their hearing
Young ears are worth protecting. Keep speaker and headphone volume at a comfortable level, take short breaks during longer sessions, and teach good habits early. A good mentor will show your child how to mix at a sensible volume.
Does my child need their own equipment?
Not to start. You don't need to buy decks before the first lesson. Once your child knows they enjoy it, you can choose equipment together with advice from their mentor. For online lessons, they will need a controller, a laptop and headphones.
Signs DJing might suit your child
- They love music and often talk about songs or artists.
- They tap along, dance or notice the beat in songs.
- They enjoy making things, from playlists to videos.
- They would enjoy a goal to work towards and show off to family.
A course built for young DJs
Our Juniors course is for ages 10 to 17: eight one-to-one sessions with a DBS-checked mentor, ending with a live graduation set in front of family and friends. Looking for a present? Gift vouchers are available too.