Can my 10 year old swtich from viola to cello?

My daughter is just finishing her first year of playing the viola, Next year she'd like to switch to the cello. Her orchestra teacher is strongly discouraging her from making the switch, saying that it would be too difficult at this point. I don't understand? I know that the posture and finger spacing are different due to the size difference. I also understand that cello music is written in bass clef, however the concept of reading music is not foreign to her having read alto clef for her viola as well as treble clef for her recorder. Wouldn't it be easier for her to switch now, with only 9 months of viola behind her, as opposed to her quitting altogether because she doesn't like the viola anymore? I guess I'm just surprised that her teacher would be so discouraging, especially since she has gotten A's in orchestra all the quarters so far. We planned on renting a cello for the summer and getting her some introductory books.

Can my 10 year old swtich from viola to cello?
As a child I played the violin, I wanted also to learn the cello but my teacher said no! I continued with the violin and was very sad. I found out the only true reason is she was not as confident in her teachings of the cello. I also learned the organ over the summer when I was 10 and was playing in church the next school year. If your daughter is truly dedicated to learning the cello do rent one over the summer and if you can afford private lessons I encourage you to do them because music helps children to remain focused and brings culture, diversity, love for what they create. Also it allows teenagers to express their independence. The last two things she might try the violin it's smaller and easier to handle, it also fits into lockers better. The other thing is that there are music scholarships for colleges out there.
Reply:i think if she strong want to play the cello she should try. its not that hard changing instruments. but the sooner you do it the easier the sello will come to her because shes still at the point were shes learning.
Reply:I think your daughter would end up being very good at the cello, considering her grades, but I would have a talk with her teacher before doing anything.