A drum is easily made from a tall oatmeal container with a plastic lid and some short wooden dowel rods, while maracas are simply constructed with two paper cups, some dried peas and tape to secure the cups together. Whatever the instruments that you and your child decide to make, take the time to embellish them with paint and your own designs so that they will be items you will use more than once.
Once you have constructed your instruments, invite friends over and make a parade. Make some band hats out of cardboard or construction paper and have all the kids march in unison around the neighborhood playing their homemade instruments. You can be the band leader and stop the kids to play for neighbors who come out to see the band.
If you have more than one constructing instruments, plan on having a performance for friends or family. This activity will require you to not only make the instruments, but work out some songs with them in rehearsal, make and send out invitations to the performance, then set up a place for the performance in your home. Set up folding chairs for your guests and work with the kids to make snacks to serve at the event, such as cookies and punch.
Many young children are embarrassed to get up and attempt to dance in front of other people. This is your opportunity to help your child be able to express himself through movement that is creative. Show your child how it is done by having him beat out a pattern on his drum while you move to the beat. Have fun and he will too. Then change places and give him the chance to move to your beat. Remember to encourage him as much as possible to build his confidence.