Guidelines to consider when introducing instruments to children:
Children should have many opportunities for free exploration with instruments before any structured activities are attempted.
Teachers should attend to the child’s interests and needs when providing any instruction on how to play an instrument.
Children need to express rhythm through physical movement before instruments are introduced.
Exploration with instruments can help children learn about pitch, rhythm, and melody.
Introduce one type of instrument at a time.
Explain the instrument and then pass it around for the children to explore.
Establish rules for handling the instrument (keep rules simple).
Instruments can be homemade or commercial. It is also enjoyable for children to make their own instruments. When children make their own instruments, they have a better understanding of how the sounds are produced. This also enhances problem-solving and creativity.