Paper Bag Rattles

Fill a few lunch-size paper bags with different items (uncooked rice, pasta, beans, buttons, bells, small bottle caps, sand, and so on) that, when shaken, will create different sounds. Secure the ends of each paper bag tightly with a rubber band or masking tape. Leave a few inches at the end of the bag for your baby to hold. Place the bags in front of your little one and encourage her to shake each bag and investigate the different sounds. You can decorate the bags by cutting out pictures from magazines or toy catalogs and gluing them onto each bag.

This activity was written by Risa Young, director of early childhood programs for the Children's Aid Society in New York City.