Partner Hand-Clapping Rhymes
In pairs, students learn traditional playground hand-clapping games that combine own claps, cross claps and partner claps to the rhythm of a chanted rhyme. Then they link them in groups of four and while moving, working on coordination, memory and rhythm.
How to play
- Partners face each other an arm's length apart: teach own clap, double partner clap and right hand to right hand (3 min).
- Teach a well-known rhyme such as "Miss Mary Mack," one clap per strong syllable; repeat it slowly three times, then at normal speed (4 min).
- Add the cross clap and a thigh pat; each pair practices until they get it twice in a row without a mistake (3 min).
- Join two pairs in a cross: one pair claps high and the other low at the same time, switching heights when the rhyme ends (4 min).
- Final challenge: pairs clap the sequence while walking, and on each teacher clap they switch to the closest new partner (4 min).
Rules
- Partner claps are gentle, with open hands and no pushing.
- If a pair makes a mistake, they restart from the beginning of the rhyme, with no complaining or teasing.
- When switching partners, nobody is left out: trios are allowed.
Variations
Easier
Use only own claps and double partner claps, with a short four-line rhyme.
Standard
A full rhyme with own, double, cross and thigh claps, first in pairs and then in groups of four.
Harder
Each pair creates a new eight-clap ending and teaches it to another pair, who must copy it on the first try.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the partner lowers to wheelchair height, and thigh pats are dropped if they are hard to reach.
- Autism or shyness: let the student start with a trusted partner and give a heads-up before each partner switch.
- Skill level: students who struggle use only own and double claps; skilled students add a full turn at the end.
Learning goals
- Coordinate both hands with a partner's movements while following a chanted rhythm.
- Learn and pass on traditional playground clapping games.
- Cooperate with different partners by adjusting to their speed.
Teacher tip
Post the rhyme on a poster or whiteboard so nobody gets lost. Ask students to bring rhymes from home or from other countries; there is usually one you don't know, and it gets them excited.
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