Musical Cylinders

[30 Minutes]

Recycle film canisters into a musical game that incorporates math concepts and listening skills. This is a good time to introduce your child to the geometric shape, "cylinder".

You'll need:

• empty film canisters or small jars • assorted items to fill shakers: dried beans, rice, paper clips, sand • self-adhesive paper or duct tape • radio or tape player

What to do:

1. Collect five canisters all the same size. Introduce the term "cylinder" as an object with a can shape.
2. Offer your child an assortment of items to fill the cylinders so that they will make noise when they are shaken.
3. Help him use duct tape or self-adhesive paper to cover the top of each cylinder.
4. Invite him to shake each one and to talk about the sounds.
5. Help your child line up the cylinders in order from loudest to softest or vice versa.
6. Turn on some music and try to shake the canisters to the beat of the music.

How to use:

1. Try numbering the cans and then shake one while your child's eyes are closed.
2. Ask him to guess which number you shook.

Let's Talk: Ideas to Explore Together.

• Which musical canister makes the best sound?
• Do you like making music?
• Let's find some things in our kitchen cupboard that come out of a cylinder.

Useful information:

While you are having fun together, this activity helps your child develop listening skills and problem-solving skills.