Flute instructor Molly Shortridge highly recommends this flute for young children and even for anyone of any age.  Molly LOVES hers! They have a great, big sound, are easy to play, and can be customized with a recorder lip plate if children are having trouble learning how to blow across a normal flute. They do not dent and can get entirely wet! Children (and adults) are encouraged to hang it up on the wall for ease of access at any time, which encourages practicing! The curved head joint allows children to be able to reach the keys and not be under physical strain, and the keys are designed for smaller hands.  The keys can be altered for adult hands, as well. This is also a good flute for adults with disabilities or shoulder pain, and may be useful for older adults who wish to learn.  The price is great and can be bought for around 150 dollars. Contact Molly for help in obtaining one of these great instruments.



http://www.nuvo-instrumental.com/index.php?route=products/flute_specs

Molly also endorses and can easily obtain this brand of flute for her interested students.  Di Zhao flutes are consistent in quality and have a beautiful sound.  The smallest version of the Di Zhao flutes is called the Mini-D and is perfect for preschoolers to begin playing flute. The Mini-D can be purchased for approximately 460 Dollars. Di Zhao offers a great selection of intermediate and professional open-holed flutes, sterling silver flutes, bass flutes, piccolos and more.

http://dizhaoflutes.com/

Flutes can be purchased easily, right here in Central Pennsylvania from Bob Warfield, owner of Warfield's Fine flutes.  Visit his website at www.WarfieldsFineFlutes.com

Even at the age of 10, James is not suited for this flute.  His head is turned at an angle that causes restricted airflow when breathing.  Younger children would have trouble with their fingers reaching the keys on a flute such as this.

This flute is much more comfortable due to its curved headjoint. James' head is in the correct position and his arms are in a more comfortable position.  Using a flute such as this motiviates a child to practice longer, since physical strain does not exist. Regular student model flutes can be adapted with this type of headjoint. Flutes can also be purchased that come with a curved headjoint.