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About this activity
Kitchen Band Jam Session assigns each child an instrument made from safe kitchenware: wooden spoons on a pan, rice in a sealed tub, or a box guitar with elastic bands. Start loud, then practise piano (quiet) and forte (loud) for self-regulation. Great after-school release, school holiday mornings, and mixed-age siblings.
Print & play
Printables to go with this activity
These printable sheets pair with this activity — print, then follow the steps above.
View printablesMaterials needed
- Wooden spoons
- Saucepan or plastic bowl
- Sealed tub with dry rice or pasta
- Empty cereal box and elastic bands optional
Preparation time
5 minutes
How to play
- 1Lay out one instrument per child and name each: drum, shaker, box guitar.
- 2Clap a simple four-beat pattern and ask the band to copy it together.
- 3Conduct with hand signals: open palm = play, closed fist = freeze, finger to lips = whisper volume.
- 4Take turns as band leader — each child invents an eight-beat solo while others keep a soft beat.
- 5End with a quiet ‘final note’ held for three seconds, then pack instruments back in the cupboard.
Learning benefits
RhythmListeningTurn-takingVolume control
Best for
Tags
rainy-dayindoorfreetoddlersage-5KS1musicafter-schoolschool holidays
Seasons
all year
Occasions
rainy dayafter schoolschool holiday
Key stages
EYFSKS1
Weather
RainyColdAny Weather
Safety note
Adult supervision is recommended. Adapt the activity based on your child's age, ability, and environment.
