Now with the school year wrapping up in the Boston area, summer is the perfect time for kids to explore new hobbies and activities, and music is a fantastic option that combines fun and learning. With a little creativity and some basic supplies, you can turn your home into a musical playground. Here are the top 5 at-home music activities that will keep your kids entertained and engaged all summer long.
1. DIY Musical Instruments
Creating homemade musical instruments is a wonderful way to introduce kids to the world of music. Not only does this activity stimulate their creativity, but it also provides a hands-on learning experience about sound and rhythm.
How to Get Started:
Shakers: Use empty plastic bottles filled with rice or beans.
Drums: Decorate empty coffee cans or oatmeal containers.
String Instruments: Create a simple guitar using a tissue box and rubber bands.
Benefits:
Enhances fine motor skills
Encourages creative thinking
Provides a sense of accomplishment
2. Summer Music Talent Show
Organizing a family talent show is a fantastic way to showcase your kids' musical talents and boost their confidence. It's a great opportunity for them to perform in front of an audience and receive positive feedback.
How to Get Started:
Plan: Set a date and time for the talent show.
Rehearse: Encourage your kids to practice their favorite songs or musical routines.
Decorate: Create a stage area with homemade decorations and lighting.
Benefits:
Builds self-confidence
Improves performance skills
Strengthens family bonds
3. Music-Themed Craft Projects
Combining music and crafts can make for a delightful summer activity. These projects allow kids to express their creativity while learning about different musical concepts.
How to Get Started:
Create Music Note Art: Use colorful paper to cut out and decorate musical notes.
Design Album Covers: Have kids draw and design their own album covers for their favorite songs.
Make a Rhythm Board: Create a board with various textures and materials to explore different sounds.
Benefits:
Develops artistic skills
Teaches basic music theory
Encourages imaginative play
4. Online Music Classes and Websites
If your student is interested in using online resources, online music classes and websites are an excellent way for kids to learn a new instrument or improve their existing skills. Many platforms offer interactive and engaging lessons tailored for children.
How to Get Started:
Choose a Platform: Websites like Outschool, MusicTutors, and Yousician offer a variety of classes. MusicTheory.Net is also an excellent resource for students who'd like to learn for free at their own pace, and review their bite-size classes with online flashcards and games. NoteFlight.com is fantastic as a free source for students interested in writing their own songs and hearing what they created with the free playback feature with digital instruments. For $1.29, Staff Wars is a popular app game among VYCo students who enjoy gaming their note-reading skills in a variety of clefs and note ranges, with their increasing speeds and levels of difficulty. These are just a few examples of the many affordable ways to use online sources within your child's summer schedule.
Select an Instrument: Decide which instrument your child is interested in learning.
Schedule Regular Sessions: Consistency is key to progress, but you can adapt at your own pace.
Benefits:
Provides structured learning
Access to professional instruction
Flexible scheduling
5. Family Jam Sessions
Nothing brings a family together like a good old-fashioned jam session. Playing music together is not only fun but also a great way to improve your child’s sense of rhythm and teamwork.
How to Get Started:
Gather Instruments: Use whatever instruments you have at home, including homemade ones.
Choose Songs: Select songs that are easy and fun to play along to.
Record the Session: Use a phone or camera to capture the moment and create lasting memories.
Benefits:
Fosters teamwork and collaboration
Enhances musical skills
Creates family memories
Conclusion
These at-home music activities offer a perfect blend of fun and education, making them ideal for kids over the summer. Whether it's crafting homemade instruments, taking online music classes, or organizing a family talent show, these activities will keep your children engaged and help them develop a love for music. So, get ready to make this summer a harmonious one with these top music activities for kids!
For more tips and ideas on summer activities, be sure to check out our other blog posts and piano lessons. Happy summer!
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