Buying instruments
Makers of educational percussion instruments are only slowly beginning to design instruments with very young children in mind. Most equipment was originally designed for primary school-aged children. But choosing instruments still needs care and thought.
If possible, visit a supplier and try out the instruments. If you find an instrument pleasing in sound and enjoy playing it, then so will the children. This may seem time-consuming, but it will be time well spent.
Points to consider
* Choose instruments on the basis of how they sound and their potential for offering interesting and varied play. Rainsticks, for example, make a wonderful sound, but once you have tipped and listened a few times, the instrument doesn't lend itself to further exploratory play. However, several 'shake, rattle and roll' instruments could be put in a basket so that play interest will be sustained and extended.
* Small children don't necessarily need small-sized instruments. In fact, small instruments often lack the size and quality to make a good, resonant sound.
* Instruments for young children don't need to be 'fun' toys. Instruments such as plastic animal-shaped shakers may be cheap and cheerful - but how do they sound?
* Check how the instrument is held. If it is held in one hand and tapped with the other, is it light enough for young children to hold? Alternatively, you could buy an instrument stand with, say, six strong clips on it and attach your own selection of wooden and metal objects to tap.
Suppliers
Knock on Wood, tel: 01423 712712, e-mail: Sales@knockonwood.co.uk.
Music Education Supplies, tel: 020 8770 3866 (free catalogue available).
