We keep DD's instrument in a humidity controlled room because a drastic change in humidity does a lot of damage to string instruments.

You might want to google cello & humidity.

Even if your DD doesn't want to continue cello beyond this year, I highly recommend private lessons, even for a handful of sessions. Getting the basics down (bow hold, bowing, tuning, posture, basic intonation/scales, etc) with the help of a good teacher would make a big difference, I promise!