Get Drumming!

Research has shown that drumming improves cognitive skills-- increasing children's brain power and nurturing physical, emotional, and language development.  Music therapists use drumming to promote wellness and boost self confidence. But research aside, drumming is just plain fun. And this drum in particular is just the right mix of indestructible and musically wonderful, to keep both parents and kids happy.

Unlike most instruments on the market today for kids, this is the real deal. The drum is made by Yamaha, the world's largest manufacturer of musical instruments. And the sound is truly excellent. And yet, I wasn't worried that my four year old was going to break it, despite it not being made from cheap plastic and other toy manufacturer staples.

We had an all out jam session the very first time we cracked it out of the box and when we were done, and I asked my son how he liked it, he raised his hands in the air like a victorious Olympian. "Mom," he said, "This is the best thing I've ever played with. And I mean, ever!"

Yamaha Real Rhythm Floor Tom. Available at music stores and online. Other types of drums in the series include kongas, tamborines, and bongos. Prices for individual instruments vary ($20 and up), with a full set of several instruments ringing in at well under $100.