I have used Flutophones in my music classroom with second graders for at least seven years. They are very durable as I have used the same ones for all of those years, washing them (in my dishwasher at home) between users. The raised finger holes make it easy for their little fingers to cover them. The notes are very easy to learn and the instrument is easy to play. A perfect choice for a first instrument for your music classroom or for your child. This is much easier than a recorder to play.

I actually run the music program for an elementary school and use these flutophones for the 2nd through 5th grade. The 4th and 5th grades are thriving, and the 2nd and 3rd grades are generally doing pretty well by and large. These instruments are well enough made and none have broken yet. I do tell the kids not to take off the removable mouthpiece, or if they do, to be careful not to break the fragile red spacer-ring.

Flutophones are easy to play. They are better than recorders for smaller fingers since they are shorter with holes closer together. They are better for smaller finger tips because their holes are smaller and have raised lips that are easier to cover than most flat recorder holes I’ve seen.

Well worth the .99 each we paid! I suggest all my students buy their own for home practice. It is great when they get playing together it reminds me of a little carnival. The sound to me really sums up childhood.

This is the exact model flutophone that my son’s school sells for them to use in music class. He has already learned several songs on it, and loves it. Good beginner instrument.