Bounces and Fingerplays
Bounces
Bounces are a wonderful activity for adult/child classes. In these activities, an adult gently bounces a young child on their lap, sometimes in keeping with the beat of the song, other times incorporating movement that is indicated in the lyrics. Bouncing is a means through which we can support the development of musical skills: beat competency, gross motor abilities, starting and stopping with the music, following a conductor/leader, listening, and varying dynamics, tempi, and meter. When initiating a bounce in the classroom, consider:
Placement of the children and adults - in a group class, it works well if the children are seated facing away from the adult, or toward the group, so that they can see the other children bouncing as well. If working individually, the child can face their adult.
Position of the adult - most bounces work well if the adult sits on the floor with their legs out straight in front, the child sitting astride, the adult supporting the child’s body with their hands. However, some adults may find this position uncomfortable; if so, sitting cross legged with the child in the adult’s lap, or sitting in a chair with the child on the adult’s lap are adaptations that you can consider.
Bouncing - bouncing as described above is not recommended for infants and babies who are not able to support their own head and neck, and adults should also be conscious to regulate the force of the bounce for safety. We want the children to feel the beat, but they don’t need a particularly strong bounce in order to do so. When in doubt, go for a softer bounce!
Cucanandy, Ireland - suggested for infants, babies, and toddlers
Five Little Speckled Frogs, U.S.A. - suggested for infants, babies, and toddlers
Macaroni, U.S.A. - suggested for infants, babies, and toddlers
Mr. Frog, U.S.A. - suggested for infants, babies, and toddlers
The Noble Duke of York, England - suggested for infants, babies, and toddlers
fingerplays
Fingerplays develop fine motor skill, while highlighting the phrases, text, or pitch contour of the music. The use of gesture while singing also helps young children to remember the words or order of a song. When initiating a fingerplay in the classroom, consider:
Placement of the children - in a group class, it works well if the children are arranged where they can see both you and the other children clearly throughout the activity. Sitting in a circle works well in most spaces.
Choosing finger, hand, and arm movements that are clear, and that your children will be able to do on their own.
Five Little Ducks, U.S.A. - all ages
Five Little Speckled Frogs, U.S.A. - all ages
Mr. Frog, U.S.A. - all ages
Pitter Patter Goes the Rain, U.S.A. - all ages
The Itsy Bitsy Spider, U.S.A. - suggested for infants, babies, and toddlers
Two Little Birds Sat on a Hill, England - all ages