Compose and play a song for an animation soundtrack

What can we use instead of a real instrument or a music app if we don't have them?

If you don't have a real instrument or app, use your voice, clap, kitchen pots, or a phone timer as a steady beat while following the 'choose a tempo' table-tapping step.

I'm having trouble keeping a steady beat or playing the four-note melody smoothly—what should we try?

If your beat or four-note melody isn’t steady, slow the tempo by tapping the table more slowly, practice clapping the four-beat rhythm first, and use a metronome or phone app to help play the melody smoothly eight times.

How can we adapt the activity for different ages or skill levels?

For younger children, simplify to two notes and two repetitions and skip the 'change one note' step, while older kids can write note names, add harmonies, a mood touch, and record a mixed take to upload.

How can we extend or personalize our animation soundtrack after finishing the basic steps?

To enhance the soundtrack, layer extra sounds from household instruments or a free music app, add a recorded sound effect for the 'little surprise' change, and use the recording step to mix levels before sharing on DIY.org.