The Best African Musical Instruments for Kids to Learn
African music is full of color, movement, and energy, and kids love it.
That’s why musical instruments for kids in Africa are a great way to help them learn, play, and stay creative.
These instruments are simple to use, safe for young hands, and very fun.
Many of them also teach kids about rhythm, teamwork, and culture without feeling like learning.
In this guide, we discussed the best African musical instruments children can start with.
From local drums to shakers, each one brings joy, sound, and a little bit of African magic into your home or classroom.
Let’s dive in!
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Why African Musical Instruments Are Great for Kids
One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to introduce children to music is by exposing them to the instruments.
Many of these musical instruments for kids are simple to use, they can start playing almost immediately without feeling overwhelmed.
They also support your child’s growth in fun and practical ways:
I. Better coordination:
Most instruments involve tapping, shaking, or plucking, which helps kids control their hands and fingers.
II. Creativity:
Children can make their own patterns and sounds, which boosts imagination.
III. Confidence:
When kids play an instrument and hear the sound they created, it gives them a sense of achievement.
IV. Cultural awareness:
These instruments help kids learn about African traditions in a friendly and hands-on way.
Because many African musical instruments are made from natural materials like wood, gourds, and seeds, they feel familiar, safe, and comfortable for young learners.
This makes it easy for them to stay excited and curious as they keep exploring.
Let’s look at some of the best options your child will love.
1. Talking Drum — One of the Easiest Musical Instruments for Kids
The talking drum is a great instrument for kids because it’s simple to play and very interactive.
Children only need to squeeze the ropes and tap the drum to change the sound. This makes it fun, engaging, and easy to learn.
Kids enjoy the talking drum because:
- It makes clear, exciting sounds
- They can control the tone with just one hand
- It helps them develop rhythm and coordination
- It connects them to a unique part of African culture
Whether your child is shy or energetic, the talking drum encourages them to express themselves freely.
It’s one of the best musical instruments for kids who love hands-on learning and exciting sounds.
CHECK THIS GUIDE TO LEARN HOW TO PLAY THE TALKING DRUM AS A BEGINNER
2. Djembe
The djembe is another great choice because children can start playing it right away.
They only need their hands, and the drum responds easily with deep or sharp sounds depending on how they hit it.
Why kids love Djembes:
- It’s loud enough to feel exciting, but still safe for young learners
- It builds confidence as they create different sounds
- It’s perfect for group activities, classes, or family playtime
The djembe is one of the most popular musical instruments for kids because it helps them stay active while learning rhythm in a fun, simple way.
3. Shekere:
The shekere is one of the easiest African musical instruments for kids to start with.
It’s made from a dried gourd covered with colorful beads, and children love it because it makes sound with the simplest shake.
Why kids love the shekere
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Easy to play — just shake, tap, or roll it.
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Bright and colorful — perfect for catching a child’s attention.
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Encourages movement — great for dance, rhythm games, and group play.
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Safe for younger kids — lightweight and not loud.
It’s a great first instrument for toddlers and younger children, especially at home, school music clubs, or cultural classes.
4. Mini Xylophone
The mini xylophone is one of the most colorful and exciting musical instruments for kids, especially in early learning.
Each bar produces a different note, so children quickly learn how sound changes when they hit different colors.
Why kids enjoy the mini xylophone
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Very visual — the colors help kids connect sound with sight.
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Encourages coordination — holding the mallet builds motor skills.
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Great for melody practice — kids can learn simple songs fast.
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Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers — safe, fun, and interactive.
Teachers love using xylophones in school music classes because they introduce kids to pitch, timing, and simple musical patterns in a playful way.
5. Omele Drum
The omele is one of the most playful traditional African musical instruments for kids, especially those curious about rhythm.
It’s a small drum set (usually three drums) that produces simple, steady beats children can copy and enjoy.
Why kids enjoy the omele drum
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Easy rhythm patterns — kids can tap along without needing advanced skill.
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Lightweight and child-friendly — smaller than talking drums and easy to handle.
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Perfect for group play — great for cultural classes, school events, or family music time.
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Introduces polyrhythm early — kids learn how different beats work together.
The omele is widely used in Yoruba traditional music and is one of the first drums young learners start with before moving to bigger drums like the talking drum or bata.
Tips for Choosing the Right Musical Instrument for Your Child
Choosing the right musical instruments for your kids doesn’t have to be complicated.
A few simple checks will help you pick something your child will enjoy and stick with.
What to consider
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Age:
Younger kids do better with simple instruments like shekere or mini xylophones.
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Interest level:
Your child taps on everything, start with a drum; if they prefer calm sounds, try a kalimba.
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Hand size:
Small hands need lightweight instruments like omele or shekere.
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Sound preference:
Loud and energetic (drums) or soft and gentle (kalimba).
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Durability:
Choose strong, handcrafted instruments that can survive daily play.
Bonus Tip:
Start with one simple instrument. If they enjoy it, gradually introduce more.
Where to Buy High-Quality African Musical Instruments for Kids
If you're looking for safe, durable, and authentic musical instruments for your kids, choosing the right place matters.
Handmade instruments sound better, last longer, and give children a true feel of African culture.
BUY FROM MLPERCUSSION
Why buy from ML Percussions
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Authentic craftsmanship: handmade by skilled African drum makers.
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Kid-friendly options: lightweight drums, mini kalimbas, shekeres, and more.
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Trusted quality: used by schools, cultural centers, and music instructors.
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Worldwide delivery: get African instruments no matter where you are.
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Beginner resources: tutorials, blogs, and guides to help your child start learning fast.
So, whether you're a parent, teacher, or music coach, MLPercussions gives you access to traditional instruments crafted with care.
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