Why we use hoops and scarves in a music class with young children

Exploration of the space defined by the hoop is helpful to the child in order to establish the boundaries within which s/he can move.  Moving a hoop up, down, and around the body further identifies its space, contributing to the building of body image.  Later on, around age 5, a child needs to learn the concept of high notes versus low notes.  A hoop is perfect for learning this concept in a very concrete way.

With scarves, spatial concepts are clarified and directionality (up/down, side/side) is greatly enhanced.  The light, flowing movement of the scarf also leads the child naturally to expressive movement, and children need to move in order to learn.  Source:  Musikgarten, Music Matters