Let the Kids Make Some Music! (or at least some noise)

One of the best things about kids is their unabashed love of making noise. Whether they are running around yelling and laughing, singing, or just banging pots and pans together; kids love to make some noise. If you are like most parents, you think that maybe they will actually pick up an instrument later in life. Maybe they will be good at playing this one or that one? Maybe they will be a virtuoso? Who knows? Well, here at Town Square Toys, we can help you get started. We have all kinds of things to throw in front of your little performer. Both Melissa and Doug and Schylling offer up excellent choices.

Now, if you want to start small and simple, you can always go for the simple percussion of the castanets or even the maracas. For heavy duty percussion, though, you will have to bring in the drums. That's right, the drums. If carrying a tune is not too important right now, pick up a kazoo or even a whistle. If your little one looks like he or she may have the chops, you can always try a harmonica - a perennial favorite to be sure.

That is the first round. Her comes some serious decision making:
You have some great choices for some awesome musical explosions at your house. Start slow with the Beginner Band Set 1 or the Beginner Band Set 2.

• Set 1 comes with a xylophone, kazoo, and castanets.

• Set 2 comes with a jingle stick, harmonica, and recorder.

• Or, you can go a little crazier with the Beginner Band set which has a xylophone with mallet, kazoo, two castanets, harmonica and a jingle stick.

• And just when you thought your head was going to stop spinning and your ears couldn't be tickled enough, you have the penultimate Band in a Box! This magnificent creation has a triangle, a tambourine, cymbals, maracas, a wooden clacker and tone blocks. It is a percussionist's dream!

I know, I know: it is all too much. "Maybe my kid isn't cut out for all of this music," you might be thinking. Well, honestly, that is okay. Fall back on the old tried and true and you can't go wrong.