Summarize:

Depending on the song's rhythm, you may need to rotate between several different striking methods in a song. Practice going from one technique to another quickly so that if a song calls for several different tones or rhythms, you can match it with the right roll or strike. While using two hands may seem useful for complex songs, it can mess with your timing. Avoid switching the tambourine back and forth between your hands for the clearest rhythm. If you're playing along to a fast song, hold the tambourine in your non-dominant hand and prop your foot on something that puts your thigh parallel to the floor, like a box or stepping stool. Strike your knee or thigh with the tambourine's shell (back side) while you play a tempo with your dominant hand. This helps make the tambourine strike louder and more pronounced. If you're trying to play along to a song you didn't write, listen for a drum, triangle, cymbal, or other percussion instruments, and try striking your tambourine to the same beat. When in doubt, this is a safe way to make sure you're playing to the right beat.
Practice transitioning between striking techniques. Play as much of the rhythm as possible on one hand. Strike your tambourine against your knee when playing fast rhythms. Play to the beat of the percussion if you don't know when to play.