Rainsticks are simple instruments that make a sound like falling rain or crashing waves.
You can make one using a snack tube, tin foil and dried foods like rice or lentils.
Find out how to make a simple rainstick in the video below.
How to make a rainstick
What you'll need:
- A snack tube
- Tin foil
- Rice or lentils
- Strong tape
- Scrunch up some tin foil or paper and stuff it into the tube
- Pour a small amount of rice or lentils into the tube
- Attach the lid and secure with some strong tape like gaffa
- Make noises by turning the tube up and down and shaking it
Make the most of this activity
Show your child what to do by twisting and turning the tube.
As you play, talk to your toddler about what they're doing - use words like 'loud', 'quiet' and 'noisy' as well as 'turn' and 'shake'.
Practise taking turns with your child by saying 'your turn, my turn'. This simple activity promotes great listening skills and encourages your child to follow simple instructions.
Ask them - 'what does it sound like?'
Safety
Always supervise your child when playing with the rainstick and ensure that the lid is securely fastened with tape as lentils and rice could be a choking hazard.
Image caption, Scrunch up a large piece of tinfoil.
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