Wee Inspirations

5 Ways With…A Shaker

  1. Bashing

    Exploring rhythm on different surfaces – floors, cushions, walls, carry them round the house to try out different surfaces  

  2. Mirroring

    Mirror the rhythms they make, add your own, count to four etc. You could have your own shaker, or alternatively move a different part of your body every time your baby make a noise with their shaker. It may take a few repetitions before they realise the cause and effect, but their faces will light up when they realise you’re their puppet! 

  3. Rolling

    Any sloped surface! Books, cushions, big bits of cardboard, if you can get your hands on a clean bit of guttering you’ll have hours of fun! Can also be used for balls, cars, even as a chute for wee soft toys 

  4. Faces

    Cut out eyes, noses and mouths from paper and attach them with blu tak to make little puppets – just be sure your wee ones doesn’t eat the blu tak! You can create an edible version by mixing some dough with flour and water and use that to make the features. Maybe a red nose with food coloured dough? 

  5. Dramatic Tension

    Just like in the show when the shakers are revealed, try hiding your shaker in a box, jar or biscuit tin, make a big show of rattling the big container and reveal what’s inside with lots of oohs and aahs. For a softer option, wrap the shaker in a scarf or place under a piece of material that can be whipped away 

  6. And Remember...

    Young children are usually pretty accepting of abstract ideas – but if they tell you you’re wrong, it’s a great opportunity! Offer them to work with you to create something they think would be better and give them the chance to share their own ideas.