5 Great Ways to Let Kids Play with Music

Play the Clapping Game

Another great way to reinforce rhythm is through teaching children how to clap with the beat. You can build their listening skills with activities like the clapping game. Sit down across from your child or in a circle with a few children and take turns. As the leader, you will clap a special pattern and then ask the kids to repeat it. You can go faster and make more advanced patterns. The group can also take turns being the leader after they catch on to the idea of the game.

Teach Music Note Values

For older children, there are lots of fun and effective exercises for learning how to read sheet music. A music measure mat can turn learning the note values into a fun flashcard game. The mat is a large print out of a music staff. You can then place notes on top which must add up to the correct number of beats for the assigned time signature. This is a fantastic idea for tactile learners because it is really hands on.

Learning the Note Names

As they learn the note values, children will also want to know the names of the notes. A super creative way to help them do this is by creating a giant keyboard with sidewalk chalk. All you have to do is sketch some piano keys on the sidewalk and then write in the names of the notes. After you have completed your chalk keyboard, your little ones can play hopscotch. You can ask them to say the letters as they walk, or they can jump to different letters as you call them out. This is a great way to incorporate music, the alphabet, play and quality time with your kids.

Someday, Take Music Lessons

After enjoying playing with music and learning the basics of rhythm and reading music, hopefully your kids will be excited to begin learning their very own instrument. Whether you look for music lessons in Chicago or search for piano instructors in Nashville, you will be able to find a good teacher who is passionate about his or her students and their success. As your children learn the fundamentals of the violin, flute or guitar, they can enjoy composing their own melodies and experimenting with sound. In this way, music can provide a creative outlet as children continue to grow and develop.

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