Instruments Invitation to Play Table

Now, let me start with a warning. If you are not prepared for NOISE on a pretty major scale, then this is not the Invitation to Play table for you!

Honestly, I did question my sanity somewhat when I put this one together…. I mean, I know how much my kids LOVE musical instruments, but come on! Let’s just say that this is not for the faint of heart.

However, I know that the benefits far out weigh any headache I will have so I gathered my resources:

Here’s What I Included:

 

• Drum
• Darabouka/Doumbek/Tabla Drum (basically a goblet shaped drum, but different areas call it different names)
• Mini symbols
• Sagat (finger cymbals as used by bellydancers)
• Tambourines
• Triangles
• Xylophone
• Marracas
• Rhythm Sticks
• Toy Clarinet
• Castanets
• Bells
• Rain sticks
• Microphones

 

When my kids were younger I would often do a music style class with them at home.

We would talk about the different ways we could play the instruments:

• Quickly / slowly
• Loudly / softly
• High / low

 

This then progressed to different beats that we could play. It took time for them to feel this out but was something that they really enjoyed.

You can also encourage them to play along with music or to the tune of their favourite nursery rhyme.

 

Neuroscientists have done a lot of research in recent years into the benefits of music on child development and some of the key findings include:

• An improvement in cognitive skills and even IQ (Playing a Musical Instrument Makes You Brainier)
• Links with music and socio-emotional awareness and skills (Research Links Music and Emotional Awareness)
• There is a tight relationship between music and language development (The Relationship Between Music and Language)

 

Additional to that, think about the gross and fine motor skills that are required to play an instrument. Your child will also develop bi-lateral coordination and executive function.

 

And seeing the joy on my kids faces makes any of the racket and noise worthwhile.

 

Having our musical instruments table was made that little bit more special after a recent visit from my in-laws.

We received our goblet drum and finger cymbals when my in-laws came over for a trip from Egypt. They also brought along some fun outfits for the kids to get dressed up in and connect with part of their cultural heritage.

 

 

 

If you’re interested in learning more about how to help your child engage with music, check out this article from Bright Horizons.