Sound Exploration For Pre-School/Kindergartners

Submitted by Connie Herbon, Iowa

Idea posted November 9, 2004

As I was looking through my preschool files today for vocal exploration ideas, I came across this activity I thought might be useful for some who are still finding their way with the younger classes. I wrote the activity originally for a class of eight pre-Ks, so everyone had each instrument, with the exception of the resonator bells. I now have regular preschool instead, with classes of 16, so I've divided the instruments into three groups. The activity is short enough to repeat for all to have turns on everything. It is intended to be a non-Halloween seasonal activity. In my preschool/kindergarten classes, I'd pair it with one of our fall/Halloween picture books.

• 6 pair rhythm sticks
• 6 drums (toms are best) with beaters
• 6 maracas or shaker cans
• sticks, drum, and maraca for teacher to use in leading
• 1 B flat and 1 G resonator bell (or appropriate substitute)

Go through all instruments and practice playing as directed by teacher. Practice slow, quiet sounds. Practice quick, running sounds. Practice picking up and putting down at teacher's cue. Imitate doorbell sound, and all take a turn playing the s-m pattern on resonator bells (or substitute).