piano
This is a piano.
← All first-word topicsMusic
Home & play · AGES 3–5 · WITH A GROWN-UP
Music
Meet some instruments.
Look at the instruments with a grown-up. Tap Listen to hear the word and sentence, then pretend to play if you wish. These clips say the words; they do not play instrument sounds.
LOOK · LISTEN · SAY
Our picture words
Tap Listen to hear the word and sentence. A grown-up can read them aloud too.
Audio plays only when you tap.
guitar
This is a guitar.
violin
This is a violin.
trumpet
This is a trumpet.
flute
This is a flute.
tambourine
This is a tambourine.
Grown-up tip for this topic
These are instruments: things people use to make music. Fiddle is another name for a violin, often used in folk music. The flute shown here is held sideways; other kinds of flute look different. Drum already has a card in Toys.
LET’S PLAY TOGETHER
Listen. Look. Choose.
Hear or read the prompt together, then tap a picture. Take your time.
Picture 1 of 3
Point together, or tap a picture.
A lovely moment of learning.
You explored three pictures together. Now try the off-screen activity, or enjoy the pictures again.
Try the off-screen activity ↓NOW TAKE THE WORDS INTO YOUR WORLD
Make a tiny pretend band
Pretend to tap piano keys or strum a guitar. Say the instrument name and take turns choosing a gentle movement. Your child can watch, point or join in.
No instrument or sound is required. Use comfortable movements and pause whenever your child wishes.
Choose another topic whenever you’re ready →FOR PARENTS & CAREGIVERS
You make the learning meaningful.
Stay with your child, talk about the pictures and follow their interest. Saying a word is optional: pointing, gesturing and listening are welcome. Use your home language alongside English.
How much should we do?
Choose just a few words to begin. There is no target score, streak or required finish. Pause for real-world play and stop when your child is ready.
About the audio and pictures
These original ESS illustrations and synthetic English audio support shared practice. Listen uses a saved audio file from this website. It does not turn on your microphone or record your child. If audio will not play, check your device volume or read the visible words aloud.
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Grown-up links and help
These links open the main ESS website, which has a different experience and privacy arrangements. Please keep control of the device when leaving Kids.