Skill· 2y–3y· 3 min
Jar Instrument Band
Parent and child create musical instruments by screwing and unscrewing jar lids filled with dry pasta or beans, then play along to favorite songs. The agent coaches the parent to observe fine motor coordination, bilateral hand skills, and sequencing abilities — building hand strength and precision through playful functional tasks.
Free to do together whenever you like.
What you'll need
Gather 2-3 clean jars with screw-top lids (different sizes if possible). Have dry pasta, beans, or rice available to fill jars. Choose an open floor space where child can sit comfortably. Have child's favorite song ready to play.
How it works
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneTwists mechanismsBody· 2y–3.5y· core
- MilestoneBimanual asymmetric hand useBody· 20mo–2y· core· Steps 1, 2
- MilestoneCreates sounds by banging, shaking, tapping or blowing.Mind· 7mo–10mo· stretch
- MilestoneMatches parts of objects that fit together, e.g. puts lid on teapot.Mind· 16mo–2.2y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneBuilds a small tower of three or more blocksBody· 19mo–2.6y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneBuilds block structures (vertical, walls, enclosures)Body· 2.5y–4.2y· core· Step 3
Visual example
Coming soon