We recommend getting a concert, alto, or soprano ukulele. These three have the same string names/order (G-C-E-A), and project the higher, happy island sound we associate with the ukulele. A baritone ukulele sounds deeper and has a different string order than the others (D-G-B-E), which is inconvenient: most lesson material, from books to videos to online chord charts, follow the G-C-E-A order and assume you're playing either a concert, alto, or soprano ukulele. (First Frets lessons, too, assume the G-C-E-A order.)

Regarding sizing, you'd have to search really hard to find a ukulele that's too big for even a small 5 or 6 year old. All ukuleles are small, lightweight, and portable, which makes them great starter instruments for young players!

Some great brands to look for are: Kala, Cordoba, Luna, Mitchell. I've taught many students through the years who carry one of these brands into their lessons, and they've always sounded good and have kept their tune well.

Ukuleles are typically inexpensive, which is another reason they make great first instruments for young players! Look at spending around $85 and up for a decent ukulele. You don't want to go much cheaper (unless you've found a good deal on a used one), because it probably won't sound very good or stay in tune. An instrument that is perennially out of tune is discouraging and uninspiring to anyone, including young students. Instead, get a good ukulele at a good price, and it will be a joy to play for years to come!