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Wednesday, October 2, 2013

The Use Of Rhythm Sticks For Children

By Angel Dudley


Rhythm sticks come in pairs and are designed to be struck or rubbed together, unlike drumsticks that are used for beating a drum. They are easy to hold and become like an extension of the body, producing percussive sounds. They offer a simple means of artistic expression and there are many benefits from using them, particularly for children.

These items are available for purchase at many online stores. Many of them are made from quality wood and have a natural wood finish but there are also items made from plastic. Some people prefer to use the plastic items as they are easy to clean, whereas others prefer the feel of wood. These items come in various thicknesses and lengths, some of which are a better fit for the hands of smaller children.

Various widths and lengths are available and some are more suited to smaller children than others. A pair may consist of one smooth stick and one ribbed or serrated one. Sets consisting of a number of sticks in different colors are also available and provide a good way of teaching children their primary colors.

Using these instruments in the classroom allows children to not only have fun and expend energy but learn many necessary skills too. Children start to identify a beat and develop a sense of rhythm. It helps to begin with a song with a strong beat. Songs with contrasting rhythms may be introduced later to help them learn concepts like fast and slow, loud and quiet.

Some teachers fear that using these instruments is unsafe. They are afraid of children hurting themselves and other children. Giving very clear and concise instructions can eliminate most safety issues. It gives an opportunity to teach children how to use their space and have respect for others, helping them to learn how to work together.

When used in a creative manner, these instruments can help with many perceptual-motor objectives. Eye-hand coordination, gross and fine movement and body image are all reinforced. By giving directions like up and down, left and right, children learn to explore direction and follow instructions at the same.

After learning and practicing a basic beat, slowly more beats can be added. Gradually a pattern is built with the children echoing the movements they are shown. This helps to stimulate their listening and memory skills. As they learn how to follow, they gain confidence and enjoy the resulting effects.

Artistic expression is also encouraged. Children can begin to explore the whole realm of sound, tapping the sticks against the floor or other objects to see what different sounds they can make.

Research has revealed that children who have a strong rhythmic sense are often able to read better, more likely to have good co-ordination and suffer fewer injuries. Using rhythm sticks is one of the ways in which a sense of rhythm is established, developing many other necessary developmental skills at the same time.




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