In many cultures, summoning rain often includes the use of a rainstick. Rainsticks are instruments that mimic the sound of rain. Traditionally, they’re made from dead cactus tubes, with cactus spines hammered into the middle. Then, they are filled with tiny pebbles. Moving a rainstick creates a trickle of sound that, when turned upside down, results in a sound similar to pouring rain.
In this activity, we’re making DIY rain sticks to explore the beautiful sounds they make.
Here’s What You’ll Need
A thick cardboard tube (like one from an empty roll of plastic wrap or tinfoil)
A hammer
Nails
Thumb tacks
Rice
Popcorn kernels
2 beverage bottle caps
Duct tape
Make Your Rainstick
1. Carefully hammer your nails into the sides of the cardboard tube.
2. Remove the nails from the cardboard tube, so that your child can put the nails back in on their own.
3. Let your child put the nails back into the previously hammered holes.
4. Secure one end of the cardboard tube with a bottle cap.
5. Add approximately ½ a cup of rice into the tube. You can also add a handful of popcorn kernels.
6. Cover the cardboard tube with duct tape.
7. Decorate your rain stick with yarn, stickers, markers––anything your child desires!
8. Bring the rain!
For more information about fun musical activities to do with your child this summer, visit our website.