So, you’ve caved and agreed to buy your kid their first drum set. We’ve been there. We understand the fear of endless headaches and noise or total abandonment after a week.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
We’ve spent hours looking for sets that kids of all ages will enjoy and we, as parents, can at least tolerate. As it turns out, there are many great options, including drum sets with learning components, high-quality sound, and, best of all, headphone jacks! The hard part was narrowing them down to just a few of our favorites.
Check out our reviews of the best drums for babies, toddlers, and kids of all ages.
- Supports 2 languages
- Equipped with colorful lights
- Teaches colors, numbers, and gross motor skills
- Unique sounds
- Different ways to play
- Sticks attach to drum for storage
- 3 electronic drums plus 1 cymbal
- Features phonics and words
- Power-saving mode
- Many features and sounds to play
- Velocity-sensitive pads
- Loud speakers with headphone option
Why Drums?
Not only are the drums a popular option among kids, but they also offer some benefits, as most musical instruments do.
These are just a few of the best benefits of drums for kids and toddlers.
- Confidence booster: Your child will learn how to play dynamically, and as they build up the courage to go for it, this will leave them feeling good about themselves.
- Good for the brain: The drums require coordination — big time. This challenges the brain since it engages both the linear and creative sides.
- A form of exercise: An hour of play/exercise is recommended for your child each day. Drumming can elevate the heart rate, and the repetitive pounding can build muscle (1).
How to Choose Drums for Kids
Drums are a favorite music toy for many. With the range of choices available on the market, and depending on your child’s age, you may not know where to start. We’re here to help.
Drums for Babies
A good time to consider a drum is when your baby starts showing signs they’re ready to roll. A drum might even make tummy time more fun. It could also encourage your baby to lift their head more and work their little arms.
Here are a few drum toy features that might interest a baby:
- Colored lights.
- Fun musical options.
- Interactive elements
- Other accessories to grab their attention, such as a mirror.
Drums for Toddlers
Toddlers are fun and creative souls, and they need a matching instrument. You might even consider getting a real drum for your tot. Here are a few things about drums your toddler might enjoy:
- Various sounds and special effects.
- Educational features, like phonics and counting.
Drums for Bigger Kids
Older children who are interested in playing the drums will need more than lights and sound effects. Here are a few things we look for when selecting drums for older kids:
Drum Kit or Individual Drums?
There are pros and cons to investing in a drum kit or buying individual drums. Let’s look at the highlights for each:
Individual drums:
- Good start for the youngest drummers as you can purchase one to start and build upon that as their interest and skill grows.
- Easily portable.
- Budget-friendly option.
Drum kit:
- Each drum has its own role.
- More ways for your child to advance.
- Can be customized with additional pieces.
Consider what your child will do with the drums — will it be a hobby or a serious interest? Having a drum kit at home can get noisy; however, having only one drum might not be enough for the enthusiast.
Acoustic or Electronic?
If you buy a drum kit for your child, you might catch some side glances from the neighbors. A genuine acoustic drum kit will make a lot of noise, but there are still plenty of good reasons to get one for your kiddo.
- Your child will get a natural feel for the instrument.
- It will let the player appreciate authentic sound — acoustic drums are made of wood, each with its own unique sound and tone.
An electronic drum kit is another option. Your child can get the same drum sounds, but they’re made with synthesizers. Here’s why you should consider an electric drum kit:
- Won’t take up as much space and is easier to transport.
- You can use headphones.
- Some kits will allow the player to switch between genres.
- You can plug it into a computer for recording and editing.
Consider Your Space
Even if your child starts with a basic kit, it will still need a fair amount of floor space. Figure out where in your house your child will use the kit. Some people choose the garage, while others might prefer the guest bedroom.
Also, you might want to consider placing a carpet underneath the kit. This can help absorb some of the sound and prevent the drums from sliding when your kid really rocks out.
Product Reviews
Here are our top drum kits picks for older children.
Alesis CompactKit 4
Best Portable Set
Electronic drum kits can be a blessing — if you appreciate your ability to hear — because you can plug in a set of quality headphones and enjoy the silence while your kids are drumming. This set gives your child four touch-sensitive pads, each with its own drum sound.
Not only does it sound like acoustic drums, but the pads also feel like real drums as you hit them, helping your aspiring musician get a real sense of the instrument.
The set will also provide your child with a variety of songs and rhythms to play along to, which is excellent for budding musicians. These patterns are the beginning of math skills for your child.
The LCD screen has a built-in game feature to help children learn, and a music-coach mode guides your child through the beats. The speakers are loud, so if your child wants to show off their stuff, you won’t need any extras.
You can also plug in headphones for a quiet session.
Pros
- Many features and sounds to play with.
- Compact size.
- Loud speakers with the ability for headphones.
- Velocity-sensitive pads.
Cons
- Some headphones are not compatible.
Our Ratings
Remo Floor Tom Drum
Best Single Drum
If your child is showing interest in percussion, it doesn’t mean a kit is the only way to go. This floor tom drum can be just as fun and exciting.
A floor tom drum is usually a larger drum that you place on the floor or use as part of a kit. This drum is designed to be played on the floor.
The shell is made from “acousticon,” a material made of sawdust and resin. It gives the drum an authentic sound.
Our kids loved the unique look of this child-themed drum.
The pre-tuned drum head is made from “Skyndeep” polyester material, which has just enough elasticity to give it that quality sound.
Your rockstar can choose to play it with their hands or use the sticks that come with the drum. The company provides matching drums of other styles as well.
Pros
- High-quality sound and durable materials.
- Can be played in different ways.
- You can add on to the kit.
- Fun for many age groups.
Cons
- Has a higher-pitched tone than authentic floor tom drums.
Our Ratings
Mendini 3-Drum Set
Best for Beginners
A kit like this one will give your growing musician two drums, one kick drum, and a cymbal to play with. It comes unassembled, so you’ll have to put it together. But don’t worry, the set includes easy-to-read instructions.
The hardwood drum shells are very durable. And since everything is attached to the kick drum, it doesn’t take up too much space.
Your kiddo will also get a pair of wooden drumsticks and a pedal for the kick drum. An adjustable padded stool adds to the comfort level to keep your kid rocking.
Pros
- Professional-looking drum kit.
- Durable materials.
- Easy assembly.
- Accessories included, like padded stool and sticks.
- Available in five glittery colors.
Cons
- The mounts need to be adjusted from time to time.
- It may not sound as professional as it looks.
Our Ratings
Drums for Kids FAQs
What Age Can Kids Start Drums?
Kids can start learning drums as early as three years old, using junior drum sets or drum pads designed for their size. This early start can foster rhythm skills, coordination, and musical interest, but it’s important to keep the learning process fun and pressure-free at this age.
Are Drums Good for ADHD?
Yes, playing drums can be beneficial for kids with ADHD. The physical activity of drumming helps in channeling energy productively, and the rhythmic aspect can assist in improving focus and reducing hyperactivity.
Does Drumming Help With Autism?
Drumming can totally be therapeutic for children with autism! It offers a sensory experience that can improve motor skills, encourage self-expression, and provide a non-verbal outlet for communication.
Can Learning to Drum Help Children With Behavioral Problems?
Learning to drum can indeed help children with behavioral problems. It gives a structured outlet for aggression or energy, improves concentration, and can boost self-esteem through the achievement of learning a skill.
