Recently I polled teachers on social media asking what teachers needed the most. It seems a lot of people struggle with those sweet, other-worldly Kindergarteners! Others wanted singing games and canons, so for the next two weeks (at least) I will posting twice a day on my socials - insta/tiktok -@aimee_ofortunaorff.
Today, we will chat about Kindergarten. Oh, how I love these little special people. If I had to pick three words to describe Kinders it would be: 1. Adorable 2. Chaotic 3. Curious.
The songs, rhymes, movement experiences, and instrument play in Kindergarten form the foundation for all other musical experiences that will happen in later years. Musical concepts of rhythm, melody, form, expression, and harmony originate and are explored through the active musical experiences in Kindergarten. Students also learn crucial skills about interacting with others, following rules and procedures, and making music in a collaborative ensemble.
Structure
Structure and routine is oh-so necessary for our Kindergarten wee ones, and so is leaving room for exploration and play. Clear and consistent routines, expectations, and an organized learning environment help our little musicians develop self-control, manage emotions, reduce anxiety, and focus on learning. See more here. So, what does that look like in our music classrooms? Maybe something like this:
Greeting/Walking In/Sitting Down
Each of these has musical opportunities- even the music you may have playing as students walk in and sit down - maybe it is a song they have sung before, or maybe it is something you will use in the lesson or in a lesson to come. Maybe there is a rhythmic element you want the students to refer back to - there are so many playful and musical possibilities.
Beat & Melodic Exploration
*The links below are videos - I would love to have embedded them here but unfortunately, blogger did not like it when I did that!
Knees a Knees a Pizza Pie is a steady beat activity we use to start each music lesson.
Movement and Name Song
Where is ____ Show Us Your Moves This is one I use after Knees a Knees a.
Reaction Training Games
Walk, Run, and Stop Dalcroze Game This is an activity that becomes a game and we do this at the beginning of each music class after Knees a Knees a.
Simple Songs, Fingerplays, Games, Dances & Instrument Play
Imitation, and Exploration
Here is one example. There are so many available resources for Kindergarten!
I hope all of this is helpful!
