Making music – using instruments to awaken the senses

What you need 

• Musical instruments 

What to try 

• If you have some small instruments at home, place them close to your baby during playtime and let them explore.  
• Spread these out to encourage your baby to move. 
• Pick up an instrument, hold it where your baby can see it and talk to them about how it looks and feels, then show them how to use it to make a sound.  
• Sing or hum along as you use the instruments.  
• Remember, your singing voice is beautiful to your baby, no matter what you’re singing about!  

Make sure you don’t leave your baby unattended when they're exploring instruments, whether home-made or from a shop. 

Good to know 

Your baby's vision has developed so much since they were born, and they are now using this sense to examine objects along with touch, taste and sound. Musical instruments are a wonderful way to explore all the senses – and bring joy to your day! 

You can easily make your own by popping some dry rice or beans into small plastic bottles and firmly screwing the top on.