The Sound of Joy (Spring 2016)

Children love to create sounds. Recently a child worked with a teacher to create a drum set, complete with cymbals. He spent all morning in the book corner, making realistic noises that sounded very much like the beats from a variety of drums.

Other children tried out the drum set.

Some adjustments needed to be made periodically, and other children added guitars. For several days the children returned to the drum set. It was challenging work to tape the cymbals on so they didn't fall off.

The group created a stage from our bear block, decided they needed a chair for the drummer and shoulder straps for the guitars.

Several children tried out the instruments, some singing along (though not always the same song at the same time).

The joy these children exhibited as they worked was a pleasure to behold. I found it especially appealing that the instruments were made from open-ended, loose parts. They also became quite creative in finding drumsticks: markers and bamboo being the most popular objects used. Favorite songs so far are "The Hello Song," "Jingle Bells," "Abiyoyo," and a made up song with a repeating refrain (so satisfying for this age group): "If the stuff is broken, you can use the tape." (This referred to our struggle to find a satisfying and workable shoulder strap for the guitars).

One day some children decided to be the Beatles. It was obvious that some children had exposure to this group and gave themselves specific identities: "I'm Ringo!" "I'm George!"

When children are deeply invested in a project, they will work with patience and resilience, will find creative ways to overcome obstacles, and, sweetest of all, find joy in the work they do so diligently.