When I purchased the maracas pictured up top as a birthday gift for my nephew, the first thing I did was call my brother for his opinion. He's a classically-trained guitarist and music teacher and he knows his musical instruments. Meinl, he told me, is a top-notch maker of professional percussion instruments. And it turns out they have a line just for kids: Nino.

Priced well and made of natural woods that look just beautiful, we love Meinl's line of instruments for children. They make wonderful gifts and high-quality toys that will last for many years.

• Skin Maracas, $14

• Wood Claves, $4.50

• Large Energy Chimes, $12.49

• Bongo Cajon, $40

• Tambourine, $22

See the full line of Meinl Nino instruments available at Amazon right here.

Images: Amazon