Getting Started: First of all, dump out, gather together, find, all your rhythm instruments. (You know, this is like taking all the clothes out of your closet for one of the closet makeovers). Separate into the following piles:
Now take inventory:
O.K., now for the fun part. You are going to create a spectacular Music Box. It will contain several “classroom” sets of instruments, some miscellaneous instruments and noisemakers, and all the other things you will need for fun and successful music times . Begin by purchasing and decorating a large colorful container big enough to hold the instruments you have, and those you would like to have. There are many large, colorful, inexpensive plastic storage containers at stores like Target and Wal-Mart, so have some fun here! Your box should also be big enough to hold a 3 ring binder, and some tapes or CD’s, and any other props you use with songs. Have A Party: Get together with 3-6 other childcare providers and schedule several craft nights. Each night you can spend a couple of hours making lots of one instrument (like egg shakers, or jingle bells). Everyone will go home with a new set of instruments, and after several of these parties, you should have a great collection , and have caught up on all the latest gossip! ( Don’t forget refreshments– remember, it’s a party!) You can also agree to have each person bring one or more instruments to swap. In addition to actual materials necessary for instruments, other fun items to have are: Electrical tape purchased in a package containing primary colors, Decocolor Markers (these will write on any surface, and are especially fun to decorate your box and smaller containers with– Buy several colors, and split the cost), buttons, ribbons or other craft items that anyone wants to contribute.
Organize:
Now that you have partied hearty, and you have
all these swell instruments, it’s time to organize your box. Put each set
of instruments in a separate container and label them with those handy
dandy Decocolor pens you got ( you know, we’re going for a “print rich”
environment). Purchase a 3 ring binder, and some plastic page protectors,
or use a laminator if you have one. Using the ideas on the
Song and
Story Sounds handout, cut out magazine pictures and place them in the
page protectors in the notebook. ( Hey, cutting out magazine pictures
sound like a good excuse for another craft night party!) If you have felt
pieces for songs, they can be placed there as well. And now… Let the Band Begin!
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