Clapping Parrots
The teacher is the big parrot who claps a short rhythm, and the whole group, as little parrots, copies it. Then the rhythm moves to knees, feet and steps around the gym. Kids work on hearing and repeating simple rhythms and on paying attention.
How to play
- Everyone sits in a circle. Say: “I'm the big parrot and you're little parrots: whatever I do, you copy.” Start with two claps and wait for them to copy (1 min).
- Clap short rhythms of 2 to 4 claps with pauses: “clap, clap... clap.” Repeat each one twice (3 min).
- Move the sound: pat knees, pat tummy, stomp feet while sitting. Same copy game (2 min).
- Standing and spread out: each clap you make is one step. “Clap, clap, clap”: three steps and freeze. Try fast and slow rhythms (3 min).
- A volunteer little parrot makes up a three-sound rhythm and everyone copies. Switch parrots several times (2 min).
- To finish, the big parrot claps very quietly, almost silent, and the little parrots copy just as softly (1 min).
Rules
- Wait for the big parrot to finish before copying.
- Clap and pat your own body, not anyone else's.
- When walking, look for open space so you don't bump.
- When the big parrot raises a hand, it's quiet time.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, two-clap rhythms always at the same speed.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, three- and four-clap rhythms with a pause.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, mix claps and stomps in the same rhythm.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the whole game works sitting down; swap steps for taps on the wheels or a table.
- Hearing: sit right across from the teacher, who exaggerates the motion, and feel the beat by touching the floor.
- Skill level: kids who find it hard get two-sound rhythms; kids who find it easy make up longer ones.
Learning goals
- Listen to and repeat simple rhythms with the body.
- Turn a clapping rhythm into steps.
- Stay focused and wait for the turn to answer.
Teacher tip
Don't explain: clap the rhythm and point to the group with both hands to copy. Keep rhythms very short with lots of repetition; if they get lost, go back to two claps.
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