Music activity
Family Concert Night
Put on a tiny concert for your family.
Materials and setup
- instruments on hand
- paper for program
- recording device
How this changes by age
Pre-K (ages 3–4)
Put on a tiny concert for your family.
Steps
- Pick one song you know by heart.
- Pick one instrument (even a homemade shaker).
- Practice the song 3 times.
- Gather your family and announce the concert.
- Perform, bow, and enjoy the applause.
Learning objectives
- Prepare a short performance
- Introduce a piece to an audience
- Take a bow
Kindergarten (ages 5–6)
Put on a 3-song family music sharing with a simple program.
Steps
- Pick 3 songs to perform: one sung, one on an instrument, one with body percussion.
- Write a tiny program listing each song.
- Practice each twice.
- Introduce each piece ('This is called ___').
- Perform in order. Take a bow after each.
Learning objectives
- Organize a 3-piece program
- Introduce pieces verbally
- Sustain focus across multiple performances
Early elementary (ages 6–8)
Create a family music sharing with a theme and a simple printed program.
Steps
- Pick a theme (outer space, animals, feelings).
- Choose 4 pieces that fit the theme — mix originals and known songs.
- Design a one-page printed program with titles, performers, and 1-sentence notes.
- Rehearse each piece. Time the full sharing session (aim for 10-15 minutes).
- Perform for family or a small trusted audience.
- Afterwards, ask each listener which piece was their favorite and why.
Learning objectives
- Curate a themed setlist
- Design a program document
- Gather audience feedback
Upper elementary (ages 8–10)
Direct and perform in a family music showcase.
Steps
- Plan a showcase with 4-5 pieces, including one original composition if possible.
- Assign parts to family members (soloist, accompanist, introducer).
- Run at least 2 full rehearsals.
- Record the showcase on video if you want.
- Watch it back and write a short review: what went well, what to change next time.
- Pick one improvement to try the next time you perform.
Learning objectives
- Direct a multi-performer family showcase
- Self-review a recorded performance
- Plan one concrete improvement for a future performance
Safety and evidence note
Read the full activity before beginning. An adult should supervise tools, heat, food, outdoor work, movement, and experiments as appropriate. Completion records that the activity was done; the child’s explanation, work sample, photo, or demonstration is stronger evidence of learning than a completion check alone.
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