Updated: Dec 7, 2020

Rhythm is such an important skill for all dancers the master. And the fun part of teaching rhythm is you can start at any age! Even 2 & 3-year-olds can practice finding the beating of the music when presented in an age-appropriate way.
This activity is always a huge hit with my students!! They love to pretend to be drummers and love to drum on the different colors.
Here's how it works!
Give each student a pair of rhythm sticks and 2-4 pieces of different color construction paper. For my toddler classes, I start with just 2 colors, while my minis get 4 different colors. Each piece of construction paper is a different drum.

Once you are set up, lead your dancers through a series of drumming. Create patterns using the different colors such as:
blue, blue, blue, blue, red, red, red, red
OR
blue, blue, red, red, blue, blue, red, red
Older students will love more complex patterns such as:
blue, red, green, red, blue, red, green, red
OR
blue, blue, blue, red, green, red, green
Continue creating new drumming patterns to challenge your dancers. Using music is optional for this activity! You can use the music as a way to keep the beat or keep it quiet while challenging your students to make their own music. Either way works great!
As an added bonus, this activity is a great way to help your students hear the beat of their recital song! Play their song and have them drum along with it. It really makes a difference in their ability to hear their music on stage.