Top 5 Instruments for Toddlers

Musical instruments are a fabulous way to keep toddlers entertained. Take it from a mom who's planned plenty of play dates, if you can't run around the park, a basket of instruments offers an instant way for kids to connect and have a blast (not to mention saving parents from going insane watching toddlers engage in destructive play).

Sure music can save the day when it comes to planning indoor activity on a rainy day, but it's got some other terrific benefits. Even the shiest tot can transform into a fearless performer when consumed by a pumping beat and armed with a bongo drum. Wait there's more! Music isn't just a good ice breaker. According to Kidshealth.org, research has shown that toddlers who get involved in listening to and creating music do better in reading and math when they start school. What's more, music has also been shown to help kids improve focus and body control. That all sounds pretty good!

Getting the musical experience started isn't too tricky. For the littlest babies, simply banging on pots and pans may suffice, but as your child gets older it's time to consider purchasing more sophisticated-yet equally enjoyable-musical instruments. This should just be a launching point for you and your kids to explore the wonderful world of music. Here are my top 5 picks for musical instruments for toddlers:

Shakers
Why do babies love rattles-why it's music! Baby's first music. Even when kids grow a bit they still love to shake it up. Simple egg shakers are an ideal starter instrument that posts no choking hazard. Preschoolers will want more bang from their instrument. That's a good time to try wooden sticks, castanets and tambourines. For a large family or playgroups, I suggest keeping a bag of musical tricks on hand. I love the wooden construction and colorful decorations on the 6-piece set from Sassafras.
$39.95

Harmonica
Small enough to fit in a pocket, this soulful instrument is a savior on road trips big and small. Stash one in the car seat to make the trip to Grandma's house a little shorter. I also like to toss one in my bag in case the line at the grocery store is god-awful and my preschooler is in need of distraction. Back at home; the harmonica lends a bluesy-note to the family band. Haba's design is one of my favorites. $5.59

Acoustic Guitar
I admit this is bit advanced for most toddlers, but trust me, kids simply can't keep their hands off a guitar. And it's a wonderful way to start encouraging children to read music. Don't worry if you aren't super ambitious about lessons. Even if they don't master any chords, it's enormously fun to stage air guitar contests. For kids with more patience and a delicate touch, I recommend the Schylling 6-string guitar. This model includes: a wooden bridge, metal tailpiece, ivory-like tuning pegs and nylon strings. $23.99

Drum
You've simply got to have a drum to make a band complete (After all what would U2 be without Larry Mullen?). Drums help kids connect with rhythm and tempo. Plus, it feels so good to let out a bit of aggression on a solid drum as you let yourself go with the music. My pick is the solid wood drum from Plan Toys. The tympanic drum comes complete with drumstick. $14.99

Piano
Dreaming of Carnegie Hall? Or maybe the next Tori Amos? It all starts with the keys of a piano. If you can splurge and have space, a tot's piano is a load of fun. My daughter simply adores this colorful model from Melissa & Doug. Their upright piano features 25 keys and two full octaves. I like the helpful color-coded key chart that aided both of us in playing a few tunes. We're hoping her enthusiasm lasts until we can transition her to a full-sized model. $47.95