Animal Tambourine - Early Years

“Animal Tambourine” – this is a type of tambourine / handheld percussion with wooden jingles (natural wood “jangles”) that create a lower-pitched shaker sound than metal jingles.

These come in various animal-shaped designs and are tactile, lightweight and easy to hold for young children - ideal for Early Years music, sensory play, and simple rhythm games.

This Animal Tambourine instrument is included in our Home Starter, Nursery Starter and Nursery Shaker Music Kits.

8 inch Tambourine is also available for purchase separately.

Please note that our products are musical instruments, not toys, and should always be used under the supervision of responsible educationalists and carers and not left with children under 3 years of age to play with by themselves. Please always follow our simple “Good Practice” guidelines.

N.B. For Early Years settings:: When you purchase this product you get free access to a wide range of downloadable Early Years teaching resources. Please visit our Early Years Resources page to see the range - free resources have a purple "FREE" label alongside. Please note that our products are musical instruments, not toys, and should always be used under the supervision of responsible educationalists and carers and not left with children under 3 years of age to play with by themselves. Please always follow our simple “Good Practice” guidelines.

For SEN settings: When you purchase this product you get free access to a wide range of downloadable SEND teaching resources. Please visit our SEND resources page to see the range - free resources have a purple "FREE" label alongside.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a tambourine (tamborine), in simple terms?

A tambourine is a percussion instrument you shake, tap, or strike to make rhythm. Traditional versions use metal jingles; this Animal Tambourine uses wooden jingles, giving a softer, lower shake that suits Early Years and classroom sound exploration.

Is the Animal Tambourine suitable for nursery and SEND groups?

Often, yes. The tactile, lightweight shape supports grip and turn-taking, and the wooden jingles can feel less “sharp” than metal. For sound-sensitive learners, use gentle shakes, short cues, and predictable start/stop routines.