Poor kids: They’re always being told to be quiet. That is precisely why sometimes — even knowing the headache it may bring — the noise must be unleashed and encouraged. Present your children with a collection of clamor, the Melissa & Doug Band in a Box. For about $20, the wooden storage crate contains pretty much all the banging, thumping, clanking, dinging joy any kid would need. Participants can play the tambourine, a triangle, a rhythm stick, cymbals, maracas or one of those sticks with flaps that makes a clappy noise (is it just called a clapper? Anyone know?). In the incredibly likely event that the band doesn’t make beautiful music, rest easy knowing that some kind person invented acetaminophen. Take two and chill out till morning.
