Making Sounds at Home: Umbrella sounds 2

Another sensory activity where you can explore making sounds at home with an umbrella.  

This guide is part of our Sense Arts, Sport & Wellbeing programme. This activity can be done at a time that suits you, either in your own space or in an educational setting.

The following activities could be done alone or with a partner. Either you can hold the umbrella in one hand and explore making the sounds with the other, or the other person could hold the umbrella and you make the sounds. Or you could both get under and take turns making the sounds!

Who is this for?

This is a crafting activity for people who are deafblind or have complex disabilities and can be enjoyed by anyone.

Why does this make a difference?

This is a sensory activity that helps people explore sound and vibrations.

How to do this activity

What you’ll need

  • An umbrella (the bigger the better)
  • Pencil
  • Large elastic band
  • Chair with back and tape (optional, for seated set up) 
Image shows a hand holding a pencil against the underside of the umbrella. / --

Activity 1: Radio waves

With the umbrella over your head, run the end of a pencil along the inside of the umbrella and listen carefully to radio-wave-like the sounds
Image shows under the open umbrella, with the elastic band looped around the handle and one of the spokes.

Activity 2: Umbrella music

Use a large elastic band and put the umbrella handle through it, or ook the loop of the elastic band over an umbrella spoke. Give it a twang while the umbrella is over your head and give it a listen.

Top tips

  • Experiment with the setup – instead of holding the umbrella, why not try taping it to the back of a chair?
  • Try different making sounds with different items from around the home
  • Combine both activities at once! You could even include Umbrella Sounds Part 1 available here.

Content created by Tom Peel