Submitted by Beth Jahn (nee Spreen), Granite Falls, Minnesota
Idea posted July 19, 2002
I started with only two sets of diatonic Boomwhackers®, but quickly discovered that isn't enough. If the kids have to take turns, they get fidgety. Last year, I had four sets. It was almost enough, but I discovered that I really want to have one more set of pentatonic for next year.
I have the bass Boomwhackers®, but they are starting to bend and crease in the middle. The kids haven't been misusing them, so I don't know why that happens. Also, I find it is easier to give all the kids the regular sized ones rather than dealing with (insert whiny voice) "I've never gotten to use one of the big ones."
I let the kids hit them on the floor or on their own body. The floor has the best sound, but I let them figure that out on their own. Eventually, they all use the floor, partially because of the sound, partially because using your head hurts.
I do have them sit in a circle on the floor when using activities from Fun With Boomwhackers®!. It makes it easier for the kids to see the patterns they are playing. For other Boomwhacker® activities, we sit in our regular places. I do think it is easier to play them on the floor though. Their chairs don't really allow them enough space in my room.
When it is available, I would recommend getting Denise Gagne's Composing With Boomwhackers® book. I've had a sneak preview, and there are a lot of great activities in there. For instance, she has a great trick for keeping kids on task while passing out Boomwhackers®.
I don't have the kids read music for a lot of Boomwhacker® activities. I find that I don't need to for rhythm things, many of Chris Judah-Lauder's activities, and songs like "Whacky Cha Cha" (from Music K-8, Vol. 12, No. 3). If I do need the kids to read music, I either make a large chart or put it on the overhead. Keeping track of music and playing a Boomwhacker® requires a little more coordination than most of my kids have.
Well, those are my thoughts on the topic of Boomwhackers®. I'm sure other people use them differently. You will just need to dive in and find out what works best for you. It's a lot of fun. Good luck.