Presentation

  1. 1

    Show one instrument at a time, name it, and show how to hold it.

  2. 2

    Play it gently and have the child imitate.

  3. 3

    Show how to hold it silent in the lap.

  4. 4

    Play a steady beat on the drum and have the child copy.

  5. 5

    Echo a simple pattern (short-short-long).

  6. 6

    Show how to return the instrument to its place.

  7. 7

    Introduce instruments from different cultures over time.

Extensions, easiest to hardest

  1. Play along with recorded music
  2. Echo more complex patterns
  3. Play loud and soft, fast and slow on cue
  4. Form a small class band

Control of error

The sound: children hear when they are off the beat or pattern.

Ready to move on when the child…

  • Plays a steady beat
  • Starts and stops on cue
  • Returns instruments carefully

Try “pink tower”, “tummy”, “diaper”, “grace and courtesy”, or “October”.