If you've been learning about music, your little one may have found an interest in instruments. Or, maybe you're just looking for an easy sensory-based craft - either way, you're in the right place! In this post, I'll be sharing a simple shaker craft for your little one with just a few simple steps and materials. Perfect for little ones who enjoy experimenting with sound, this craft is easily adjustable for children ages 3-6!

Gather These Items:

• Empty, clean plastic bottle with lid (~591 mL size)

• Dry rice or beans (~1 cup)

• Funnel

• Masking tape, clear packing tape, or duct tape

Make the Shaker:

1. Pour: Start by using the funnel to pour the dry rice or beans into the empty bottle. Your child can help with this step. You'll want the bottle to be about half full. To avoid mess, ensure the water bottle is stable by holding it as you pour so that it does not fall over.

2. Close: Once your bottle is about half full with dry rice or beans, place the lid back on the bottle to close it.

Are you looking for more instrument themed learning opportunities? Our I is for Instrument letter study includes a variety of printable activities to engage your child in learning all about the letter I and instruments! Check it out below!

3. Tape: Once the lid is secure, use the masking, duct, or packing tape to secure the lid on the bottle. This is so your child cannot remove the lid.

That's it! Your shaker is complete! Allow your child to explore the shaker, noting how it feels and sounds as the rice moves around. Use it as an instrument for music lessons, as a toy for fun, or as a calm down tool when your child needs a sensory break.

For an added sensory experience, make two shakers - one with rice, and one with beans. When your shakers are complete, have your child compare the sounds that each shaker makes. Are they the same or different?

Incorporate Numeracy Skills:

Looking to make this activity more educational? Here are some tips for incorporating numeracy skills!

Fractions: Explain to your child that you want to fill the bottle about half full. Use a sharpie to mark on the outside of the bottle about where halfway is. Explain that you have split the bottle into two equal parts, and you want to fill one of those parts, and leave the other part empty. This is called half. At the preschool age, you don't need to go in depth or do any precise measurements - just introducing the idea of "half" is a great lesson for little ones!

Estimation: After marking the halfway point on the bottle, and before pouring the rice or beans in, have your child guess how much they'll need to fill the bottle halfway. No need for specific measurements, just pour some rice or beans into a bowl and ask if they think you'll need more or less! After filling the bottle to the marked line, discuss whether your estimation was right or wrong, keeping in mind that being "wrong" isn't a bad thing - it's about learning.

Did your little one enjoy this shaker instrument craft? Let us know or tag us in your photos on instagram @littlenorthernlearners!

Are you interested in more preschool craft ideas? Our A-Z Learning Letters bundle includes a fun craft idea for each letter of the alphabet, plus a variety of themed activities to go with the letter! Click below to get started.