​​​​​​​Materials: Use pots and pans to strike. Make wood or plastic spoons drum sticks. Use items that rattle and other open-ended materials for making music.

STEP 1

Tell your child that they can help you make music anytime and anywhere! Find some items to tap and sing your child’s favorite song. Tap on the items you chose while singing.

STEP 2

Encourage your child to sing and tap along with you as you sing. The alphabet song is a great example of a song with a steady beat.

STEP 3

Have your child pick the next song that you will sing together. Have them choose which item they want to use to tap, drum, or shake while singing.

MAKE IT EASIER:

Start with songs that have a slow and steady rhythm. Hold your child in your lap and help them tap, sing, shake, or drum along with you.

EXTEND THE LEARNING:

Have your child make their own music toys with found things like string, a washcloth, and an empty bowl or box.

WHAT IS MY CHILD LEARNING?

Your child is learning that making music is a fun way to play. This helps their brain and body grow as they learn how to compare sounds.

WHY?

Your child learns best by playing! Keeping a steady beat helps your child learn how to identify different sounds and rhythms. This helps their brain learn early math concepts like counting, size, and frequency.​​

child hitting pots and pans with drumstick