How to Make a Paper Plate Tambourine

Create your own musical instrument using simple household items and discover the joy of making your own rhythm. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Decorate your plates. Before you put your tambourine together, use your markers, paint, or stickers to decorate the backs of both paper plates. Let your imagination run wild!
2. Add the noise-makers. Place one plate face up. Carefully pour your dried beans, rice, or bells into the center of the plate. Make sure you don't add too many, or it will be hard to close.
3. Seal the tambourine. Place the second plate on top of the first one, matching up the edges. Ask a grown-up to help you staple or tape all the way around the edges to make sure it stays shut tight.
4. Test your rhythm. Give your tambourine a good shake! If it doesn't make enough noise, you can add more tape to any gaps or try shaking it in different ways.