If your child expresses a preference for another instrument, it's best to allow him or her lessons in that instrument. Don't force piano on a child. Also consider the influence of a child's piano lessons on younger siblings. Nothing can motivate a child to take piano lessons more than seeing an older brother or sister playing. Most teachers recommend that a child should be at least 6 years old to begin lessons, and some say age 8 is better.
Children can read by then and their hands are more able to perform keyboard maneuvers.
Harriet Evans of Howell, who has taught piano for nearly 50 years, requires that her students know their letters and numbers. There's a new book out now that has a Mozart mouse and a Beethoven bear. It's a story of these two little toys that come out at night. Lessons, generally 30 minutes long, are individual or in groups through music stores or organizations or by private teacher. They can take place away from the home at a school, music store or teacher's home.