You already know how much your child thrives with rhythm, melody, and movement, as you see it every week in class. But what about all that time between classes when your little one still wants to dance and explore sound ?
Lucky for you you probably don’t need to buy anything. No fancy toys or instruments. Nor do you need a high level of creativity to keep the musical fun going at home. Your house is already filled with items that can be turned into instruments.
Impromptu Instruments You Already Own
Need a quick an easy activity during a long, unstructured summer afternoon? Try these go-to “found instruments”:
WOODEN SPOONS & MIXING BOWLS = DRUM SET
Let your little explore tempo and dynamics right there in the kitchen while you make lunch. It’s a bonus activity that keeps them occupied while your hands are busy.
TUPPERWARE SHAKERS
Fill containers with rice, lentils, or dried pasta. Don’t forget to secure the lids with tape if you think your child can pry it off. Now you have instant rhythm play. You could even turn it into a “quiet vs loud” sound game.
PAPER TUBE TRUMPETS
This one is great because you need nothing but an empty paper towel tube and some imagination. Encourage some vocal play by singing or buzzing through the tube. Model for your child how to use their voice, breath, and lips. It’s great for breath control and self expression.
FAST AND EASY CRAFTS THAT DOUBLE AS INSTRUMENTS
Need a slightly more involved yet still simple craft activity? These are great projects for playdates, or for involving siblings in an activity together. The older child can help the younger affix stickers or put marker caps on. It’s great for sibling teamwork. Then once the craft is done, you have instruments for a Family Jam!
PAPER PLATE TAMBOURINES
A classic. Have your kid decorate some paper plates with markers and stickers. Scoop a bit of dried beans or pony beads onto one plate. Have a big kid or a grownup staple the plates together. Secure the edges with tape (washi tape for funnies, if you’ve got it.)
DIY RAINSTICK
Use a paper tube, some tin foil, and rice to mimic the sound of falling rain. It’s an interesting sound and a tactile experience. Again, pull out those stickers for added fun. Or maybe some glitter glue if your child has the patience to let it dry before they play with it.
CUP DRUM
Gather some plastic and paper cups. Use scissors to cut them to different heights. Turn them over and tap away with some spoons or sticks. Try different sizes and materials to experiment with different tones and timbres.
Why it Matters.
These DIY instruments aren’t just for fun, though they are that. These activities help reinforce the musical concepts your child is learning in class. It also turns music into something woven into every day life, not just a weekly activity.
So next time your child is a little bored or getting antsy and you need to keep them occupied, pull out one of these ideas. It’s fun. It’s fast. It’s easy. It promotes bonding and family connection. It develops those fine motor skills and boosts their cognitive development.
Better yet, bring your homemade instrument to class to wow your teacher! Which idea is your favorite?