Eight-year-old children typically should not start private voice lessons because vocal muscles and the larynx are still developing. Many children who seem unable to sing at younger ages develop strong voices later as their anatomy matures. Supportive encouragement is important; discouraging reactions from caregivers can harm a child's enjoyment and confidence. Joining a children's choir provides training in pitch, breath control, and ensemble singing under a qualified director and offers constructive musical education. If the child continues to enjoy singing and shows readiness around ages 12–13, private voice lessons can then be appropriate.
Two notes, right off the bat: 8 is too young for singing lessons (her vocal muscles are still growing!), and Amanda is not a "lost cause." Lots of children who "can't sing" at 8-or 10, or 12-turn out to be very good singers after their vocal cords and larynx (or voice box) have grown. I hope this turns out to be true for Amanda, since she so enjoys singing. But even if it doesn't, there are ways for her not only to be encouraged in her love of singing but also to learn to get better at it.
Find a choir for Amanda to join. Google "children's choir" and the name of your town-I'll bet you'll find something. A good choir director is worth their weight in gold in terms of music education (and I happen to firmly believe that music should be part of every child's education). When Amanda is older-about 12 or 13-and has some experience singing with a choir, if she asks for voice lessons, then you can enroll her.
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