Thursday, October 3, 2013

The Advantage Of Using Rhythm Sticks

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 local stores as well as from online stores. Purchasing online offers the benefit of reading reviews written by satisfied customers. Many of these items are made from wood and this is often just finished and left unpainted. Other materials like plastic may also be used. The plastic items are lightweight and easy to clean. However, many people prefer the feel and sound of wooden ones.

Some of these items are smooth and others are serrated, with a set sometimes consisting of one smooth stick and one serrated stick. There are even sets that come in primary colors. These are useful for teaching children their colors while they are having fun. Some sets include guides with ideas for use.

Using these items for any activities with children is a way of keeping them thoroughly entertained while learning too. It enables them to learn the rudiments of musical rhythm. They begin to identify a beat and to internalize it. Choose a basic song with a strong beat and they will soon master a simple beat. Later, concepts like fast and slow, stop and go, fast and loud can be introduced with a song chosen for these contrasts.

Clear instructions need to be given before putting the sticks in the hands of the children. Accidents like poking other children in the eye can be avoided by teaching children about their own personal space and making them aware of giving other children space. Structuring of activities carefully also helps with safety considerations.

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.

Apart from just learning to follow instructions, children can also learn to experiment and develop their artistic expression. They can be given opportunities to discover a whole world of sound. For example, they can try tapping against different objects, like the floor or their shoes, to see what sounds they can create.

Once children have learned how to follow a beat, they can be given more opportunity to improvise. They will enjoy creating their own patterns that flow and compliment those of others in the group. Research shows that children with a strong sense of rhythm are often better readers with good co-ordination who are less likely to be accident-prone. Using rhythm sticks is beneficial for many reasons.




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