Develop children's co-ordination and appreciation of rhythm with a clapping game.
Child development opportunities
* To co-ordinate language with matching actions
* To develop better control over left-and right-hand movements
* To find out that self-improvement can be fun and satisfying.
How to play
* Ask the children to sit or stand in lines or circles with the same number of children in each.
* Number the children so that they know who is the first to play and who is the last.
* Explain that they are going to repeat the words 'tap, tap, clap' at the same time as one child does the actions. The actions begin on the left and move towards the right.
No 1 Tap Left hand taps left thigh Tap Right hand taps right thigh Clap Right hand claps with No 2's left hand.
No 2 Tap Left hand taps left thigh Tap Right hand taps right thigh Clap Right hand claps with No 3's left hand.
No 3 as above.
* The last child taps on their two thighs and then raises their right hand to show that they have finished.
* The first group to finish are the winners.
Tips
* Aim to increase the speed and build up rhythms. However, make sure that the game stays a fun activity.
* Suggest to children that they practise at home ready for the next session.
For more games, see Acker Backa BOO! - Games to Say and Play From Around the World by Opal Dunn (Frances Lincoln, 10.99). ) Opal Dunn. The author disclaims responsibility for any adverse effects resulting directly or indirectly from the game outlined.