Musical Activities for Kids and Teens

Introducing your kids to the enchanting world of music can be a rewarding and educational experience, whether trying to encourage a love of music in your kids or helping with their brain and emotional development.

For youth leaders within community youth groups, Girl Guide, Scouts Canada, YEG youth groups, YMCA groups, afterschool groups, or daycares, here are ten ways to encourage kids to enjoy and practice music skills. These youth group ideas are sure to be a hit with your group!

It’s interesting to note that, on average, 85% of children have played a musical instrument compared with 74% of adults. Moreover, More children have received instrumental lessons (62%) compared to less than half of adults. As people age, the proportion of adults who have never played an instrument increases steadily, from 8% at 18 to 20 years old to 38% at 65 years and over.

These statistics indicate that access to instrumental learning opportunities has recently significantly improved. Activities like the ones listed below are one way to encourage those numbers to keep growing. Having a love and appreciation for music young can help keep that love and appreciation going into adulthood.

Engaging and Educational Music Activities for Kids and Teens

From simple DIY projects to interactive musical games, here are some ideas to spark your child’s musical curiosity and creativity:

1. DIY Music Box Adventure: Create your own music box with your child. Depending on their age, you can choose a simple version using craft supplies or opt for a more intricate design using a music box kit. Work together to decorate the box and customize the tune list. This hands-on activity enhances creativity and introduces them to the mechanics of music.
2. Nature’s Rhythms: Take a nature walk and collect items like leaves, twigs, and rocks. Arrange these items in different patterns to create natural percussion instruments. Experiment with their sounds when tapped together or dropped on the ground. It is a fun way to explore rhythm and texture.
3. Household Instrument Band: Raid your kitchen and home for items that can double as instruments. Pots and pans make great drums, and glasses filled with varying amounts of water can create a makeshift xylophone. Let your kids experiment with different pitches and beats, and encourage them to compose their tunes.
4. Singing Storytime: Choose a favourite storybook and turn it into a musical experience. Assign different characters or events to specific musical cues. For example, whenever a particular character appears, you and your child can sing a designated tune. This adds an interactive and melodious dimension to Storytime.
5. Musical Freeze Dance: Create a playlist of your child’s favourite songs. Start playing the music and encourage your child to dance along. When the music suddenly stops, they must freeze until it resumes. This game helps with rhythm and coordination while offering plenty of giggles.
6. Crafty Instruments: Get crafty and make simple musical instruments together. You can create shakers with rice-filled containers, rubber band guitars using cardboard boxes, or even a rain stick using a cardboard tube and beans. Decorate these instruments and enjoy making music with them.
7. Songwriting Session: If your child is interested in writing, guide them to compose their own song lyrics. You can help them set their poems to a familiar tune or create a melody together. This activity encourages creativity and storytelling.
8. Music Scavenger Hunt: Create a musical scavenger hunt by playing short clips of diverse types of music. Your child’s task is to match each clip with a picture or description of an instrument. This game introduces them to various musical genres and instruments.
9. Virtual Musical Tours: Explore the music world online by visiting museums, exhibitions, or workshops dedicated to music. Learn about distinct cultures’ musical traditions and instruments, fostering a global perspective on music.
10. Family Jam Session: If you play an instrument, involve your child in a mini jam session. They can experiment with playing simple rhythms on drums or tambourines while you play a melody on your device. It is a delightful way to bond through music.

How do I adjust these music activities for kids and teens?

Thank you for asking! It is a simple question with a simple answer. The list above is a fantastic list for all age ranges. Sometimes, you must adjust for your group’s age and skill level. Take note of your group’s age range and skill level and adjust for their needs. For example, when working on a family jam session, a toddler would have a wonderful time with drums or a tambourine, while a preteen could manage something a little bit more skill-orientated.

If you are unsure, it will not hurt to ask your kids or their parents for considerations to keep in mind. Ask everyone to vote on a genre or supply suggestions so that they are a part of the group activities.

In Conclusion

Remember, the goal is to make music enjoyable and accessible for your child. Whether building a DIY music box, crafting instruments, or dancing to your favourite tunes, these activities can create lasting memories and nurture your child’s musical interest and talent.

Which of these activities have you and your family enjoyed? Tag us on Twitter @Styleswitching to share your ideas and fun!!