Music Hunt: Day Three

Sometimes, our eyes get in the way of our ears. We hear something in a certain way because we can see what is making the sound. Try this activity to see if you can see with your ears!

Materials:

Anything you have at home that makes a noise. (To be fair to new players, start with things that are very distinctive. Older children can handle more of a challenge) You can assemble items in a bin the day before without your children seeing or you can pick things up as you play the game. I like to get everything together ahead of time, but it's really up to you.

Procedure:

Have one child turn around and close their eyes. You can use a blindfold to make it more interesting or to help younger children keep from peeking.

Choose a noisy item (a jar of rice, a jingle bell, car keys etc) and make some noise with it. Other children can take turns choosing and shaking each item.

Have your blindfolded child guess what makes that sound.

You can give hints (We eat it for dinner. It's white. etc) if the child is having trouble figuring it out. Some items, like a jar of rice and a jar of dry beans, sound very similar, so if a child gets stumped, give hints until they are successful. No one should walk away feeling defeated by the game.

You can repeat this activity at spontaneous moments. Want the children to guess what's for dinner? Shake the rice bin! On your way out the door? Have them close their eyes and jingle your keys as a signal to get ready to get in the car. Your days are filled with opportunities to practice listening. Take advantage of them.