Violin shoulder rests for children

[SparkleRainbow]

Does anyone have any recommendations for shoulder rests for a child about to start learning at age of 5. I have horrific memories of getting all achey trying to manage with a home made foam contraption. I have a wolf myself, but don't know if they are any good for little kiddies. Any advice or experience would be gratefully received. Thanks in advance.

Hi Sparkle - I'm not sure if I've seen Wolf type rests that small? DD is 6, currently using an 1/8 violin, and for her we just picked up a set of foam pads from the music shop. Basically it's a rounded flattish foam square with a couple of smaller pads that can be stuck on to it for a bit of extra height if need be. Not sure how effective they are as DD has ended up not using a rest at all, but the set only cost a couple of pounds, so might be worth trying first to see if it's comfortable.

When dd1 was having lessons (at 7yrs) she was told to use a big oblong sponge held on with an elastic band.

If they are very small a little sponge and elastic band to hold it on is often most comfy 1/4 size upwards I use Viva rests.

here

dd has a 1/8 size violin and her music teacher added a fat foam sponge held on with rubber bands.

If you get a really big sponge with curved ends and cut it in half, then it pretty much fits the curve of the vioin.

It ain't pretty, but it seems to work fine.

Also used a rectangular sponge held on with an elastic band when I was young. Probably something better available now .

Thanks guys...think the sponge option is probably the way to go then...then if they stick at playing one of those recommended by SkippyjonJones.