Determining the appropriate age for kids to attend concerts largely depends on the type of concert, the performer, and the maturity level of the child. Many factors should be considered when deciding if a child is ready for their first concert experience.
Is there a general age requirement for kids to attend concerts?
There is no universal age requirement for kids attending concerts. Venues and performers often have their own policies regarding minimum ages. Typically, most live music events will allow children as young as 5 or 6 to attend with a parent or guardian. However, this can vary widely depending on the venue and performer. Very young children are generally not recommended for loud rock concerts or music festivals.
What are some guidelines based on age?
Here are some general guidelines for minimum ages at different types of concerts:
- Children’s performers (Raffi, The Wiggles, etc): Typically allow infants and toddlers but check act’s policy.
- Family-friendly pop/rock concerts: Usually allow ages 5+ with guardian.
- Large pop/rock arena concerts: Recommended for ages 7+ or older.
- Heavy metal/punk/hard rock concerts: Not recommended for under 12 years.
- Music festivals: Usually not suitable for under 13 unless kid-friendly fest.
Many venues or artists will have a specific age policy posted on their website. This is always the best source for age requirements. If no policy is listed, calling the box office is recommended.
What factors determine if a child can handle a concert?
Beyond just the age of the child, parents should consider these factors to determine if a child is ready for a concert:
- Venue size – Large arenas and amphitheaters can be overwhelming for young kids.
- Crowd energy – The vibe of the crowd can affect a child at rowdy concerts.
- Length of show – Young kids may lose interest in long 2-3 hour shows.
- Start time – Late night concerts are usually not suitable for young ages.
- Opening acts – Sometimes openers have a different style than the headliner.
- Noise levels – Very loud music can irritate or scare some children.
- Mature themes – Some performers may use adult language/content.
Knowing your child’s temperament and maturity level is key. Shy or sensitive kids may feel overwhelmed by large boisterous crowds. High energy kids may have trouble sitting still for long shows. Chat with your child honestly about what to expect beforehand.
What are some first concert tips for parents?
If you decide your child is ready for their first concert, here are some tips to create a positive experience:
- Bring ear protection like ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones.
- Arrive early to get acclimated before crowds arrive.
- Let your child demo earplugs at home so they get used to them.
- Bring snacks, small toys, books to keep them occupied.
- Have an exit strategy if it gets too overwhelming for your child.
- Consider seats away from speakers or loud sections.
- Point out exit locations in venue for your child’s comfort.
- Hydrate with water and avoid too much sugary drinks.
- Make a plan for bathroom breaks during the show.
- Capture some video clips so they can re-live the experience.
The most important tip is to make sure your child is truly excited for the show, not just going along because you want to take them. This will ensure they get the most enjoyment out of their first concert!
What age do most venues allow kids to attend concerts?
Here is a table summarizing the typical age requirements at different types of venues:
| Venue Type | Typical Minimum Age |
|---|---|
| Small club or bar | 21+ only, no kids |
| Theater or performing arts center | Usually 6+ with guardian |
| Mid-size amphitheater | 6-12 minimum depending on artist |
| Large arena/stadium concert | Typically 7-12 minimum |
| Music festival | Usually no under 13 without guardian |
| Children’s concert | All ages welcome including babies |
These are general guidelines but each venue will vary in their exact policies. Certain artists may set their own limits regardless of venue rules. Always check for the specific age rules at the exact concert you plan to attend.
Should kids attend age appropriate concerts first?
It’s highly recommended to take kids and teens to concerts specifically geared towards their age group before attending “adult” concerts. This allows them to get used to live music events in a more controlled environment. Here are some great starter concert options for kids:
- Preschoolers: Kidz Bop, Raffi, Dora the Explorer Live
- Ages 5-10: Wiggles Reunion Tour, Radio Disney Road Show
- Preteens: Boy band or girl group tours like One Direction
- Teens: Pop idols like Shawn Mendez or Ariana Grande
Look for daytime matinee shows or concerts at smaller local theaters as a first concert. The crowds tend to be calmer and volume lower compared to big arena concerts. This will ease them into the live music experience.
What age can kids attend concerts without parents?
Most venues will not allow kids under a certain age to attend concerts without a parent or guardian present. Here are typical guidelines on when kids can start attending concerts independently:
- Age 12-13 – Can sometimes attend concerts with other adult supervision like an older sibling, aunt, grandparent etc.
- Age 15-16 – May be allowed to attend teen-focused concerts with groups of friends but often still need adult.
- Age 18+ – Generally required to be considered a legal adult and attend concerts unsupervised.
However, every venue will have their own entry policies for minors. The age limits may be stricter for rock, metal and hip-hop shows catering to older audiences. Start by checking if the concert has a minimum age and if kids under 18 require adult accompaniment.
Should parents attend concerts with young teens?
Even if venues allow unsupervised teens around ages 13-15, many parents choose to still attend concerts with their young teens for the following reasons:
- Oversight – Kids can get separated from friends or overwhelmed in crowds.
- Emergencies – Parents can assist if kids get injured or ill.
- Transportation – Convenient for parents to drive kids to and from venue.
- Peace of mind – Parents feel more secure knowing eyes are on their child.
- Parental guidance – Monitor kids’ behavior and step in if needed.
- Bonding experience – Opportunity to share a memorable event together.
With general admission “festival seating” concerts, having a parent present is highly recommended for teens under 16. Ultimately it’s the parent’s call based on maturity and responsibility level of their individual child.
Are there any concerts kids should avoid?
Yes, here are some concert types that are generally not suitable for kids under 15-16:
- Heavy metal, punk or hardcore shows – Rowdy crowds can get dangerous for kids.
- Music festivals – Likely drug/alcohol use in crowds.
- Jam band concerts – Lots of intoxicated adults and marijuana use.
- Late night club shows – Usually end well past bedtime for kids.
- Raves – Heavy drug/alcohol use.
- Rock concerts with mosh pits – Can get very rough even if kid stays away from pit area.
Parents should also use discretion with any artists that may promote explicit lyrics, criminal behavior, drug use, or contain adult themes in their performances. Each parent will have a different view on what’s appropriate for their child. When in doubt, choose concerts with kid-friendly themes and energy instead.
Conclusion
Determining the appropriate age for a child’s first concert experience requires careful consideration by parents. While some mature children may be ready for concerts as young as 6-7 with guardian supervision, others may need to wait until their early teens. Consider the individual child’s personality and ability to handle crowds, loud music, long days, and unfamiliar situations. With proper preparation and expectations, concerts can be a safe, fun, and memorable activity for music-loving kids and teens.
