children should not begin to learn the 'rocks' whilst very young as it can cause damage to the feet in a child whose bones are still soft- as happened to my own daughter - so i would say about 7-8 years of age. They are also old enough then to understand the discipline involved but, i must say, i agree with bodhran player never if its the parents who want the child to learn, because music/dance is there primarily nto be enjoyed.. not endured.