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.
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