Young children love music. Music has a wonderful ability to set the tone, improve mood and encourage active play. Simple music activities can encourage kids to develop a love of music and participate in developmentally appropriate activities.
Music is a great way for young children to get out the wiggles. Turn on some upbeat music and encourage kids to express their emotions through dance. Be encouraging and try to avoid giving too much direction. There is no right or wrong way to dance and the movement is a great way to transition to another activity either in the home or preschool setting. It is also a great way for kids to get some exercise.
Traditional Music Activities
Traditional music activities that parents played as children themselves are often overlooked in today's high-tech world. Games such as Ring Around the Rosy and London Bridges and wonderful, simple activities that toddlers and preschoolers love to play over and over again.
Create a Band
Young children love to create their own music. Child-size musical instruments can be found in all price ranges and make wonderful toys that will last through many stages of child development. Musical instruments can easily be created from common household items if parents want to save some money. Empty oatmeal containers and spoons can be used to create cheap drums. Large metal spoons can be hit together or used on pots and pans. Toddlers can place used paper towel rolls over their mouths and hum a song for a neat effect. With a little bit of creativity parents can find limitless possibilities for musical instruments in their own home.