Instructions

Collect a variety of household "drums" that make different sounds, such as metal pots and ceramic bowls. Provide your little one with “drum sticks", such as a wooden spoon and a whisk, and let them make music! Increase the benefit of this exercise by having your child drum to the beat of music or try to criss cross their arms while drumming.

The Science

Drumming is a joyful activity that exercises a variety of neurocognitive skills. It requires children to integrate sensory information from left and right hemispheres, as they tune into the rhythm of the music--an auditory processing exercise--and coordinate the left and right hands as they tap the drums--a motor planning exercise. Over time, musical activities such as this one can help your child better plan, organize, and regulate across contexts.