This activity has been revised and was originally created by Judith E. Bevans and published in the Perkins Activity and Resource Guide (1st edition, Volume 2, 1992). The second edition is available for purchase.
Music is a universal language, and a great way to engage children in activity. This activity works to improve gross motor skills, teach children to follow directions, and relieve tension when the class needs a break. Lessons include Social Skills, English Language Arts, and Recreation and Leisure.
Guitar, autoharp or piano (optional)
- Students sit on the floor in a circle.
- The teacher sings the song and students follow directions independently or with assistance.
- Appropriate activities: clapping hands, tapping knees, wiggling fingers, shaking head, clicking tongue, stretching, standing up, turning around, bending knees, stamping, jumping, swinging arms.
- If the song is started from a sitting position, use a verse to stand up, followed by movements in standing position.
- Students can give directions.
- Students can find a partner and do some activities together.
- Adapt words to mobility tasks: “Touch and drag, jim along Josie…”
- Encourage independent travel: “Climb the stairs, jim along Josie…”
Hint: Use the last verse to move students to an appropriate place for the next activity, e.g. “Make a circle holding hands.”
