Chirimbolo: Body Parts Circle Song

A traditional circle song passed down for generations, much like the Hokey Pokey: the group circles holding hands and, as body parts are named, puts each one into the middle. Students build body awareness, group coordination and rhythm while singing.

How to play

1. In a circle, holding hands, teach the song sitting down, then sing it while circling right: 'Al corro chirimbolo, what a lovely game' (2 min).
2. At 'one foot', everyone stops and puts a foot in the middle; then 'other foot', 'one hand', 'other hand', 'one elbow' and 'other elbow'.
3. Each repeat adds the parts up and ends in a silly balance pose; then circle left (3 min).
4. Tempo changes (3 min): sing slowly like turtles, then fast while circling at a jog.
5. In 4 groups of 6, each group invents a new body part ('one knee', 'my head') and teaches it to the class (3 min).
6. Finish with one big class circle singing the version with all the new parts.

Rules

• Keep holding hands while circling unless the song says otherwise.
• Circle at a walk or jog, without pulling classmates.
• Move body parts into the middle slowly to avoid bumping.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a wheelchair user puts arms, elbows and head into the middle while the circle moves slowly.
• Autism: place picture cards of each body part in the middle and give a warning before each change of direction.
• Fitness level: alternate slow and fast versions based on how tired the group is.

Learning goals

• Identify and move body parts following a song.
• Coordinate group movement with a sung rhythm.
• Enjoy a folk song handed down from generation to generation.

Teacher tip

The lyrics vary from town to town: have students ask at home how their families sang it and add those verses. Teach it seated first so everyone can sing before moving.

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