Music is a great way to review some math and language concepts after a long break! The brain is hard-wired to process information at its best when such information is presented in rhythm, pattern, and/or rhyme. The brain also stores that information in what many people call “the vault,” which their long term memory cells. So, if information is presented to children in such a way that it is appealing to the brain, then they should not only remember it, but eventually use what they have learned through play.
For example, try this repetitive rhyme with your child or your class (3-7 years with typical verbal development). Have them repeat each line after you and mimic the same movements. Coupling words with simple movements, as done with infants using baby sign, increases memory retention as well as motor control. Research also proves that language acquisition occurs when 3 nerve pathways to the auditory, visual and the motor center are simulated simultaneously. As children hear the rhyme, watch your movements and then move themselves, this activity and others like is are supporting children’s language development as you interact playfully.
Say together with child while clapping a steady beat, “Do you know which hand your left one is, do you know which hand is right? If you can repeat this little rhyme you’ll figure it out all right.”
Now, children repeat after you.
Holding up left hand to make an “L”, “The left one makes an L.” (Children repeat)
“Do you use it to spell?” (Children repeat, imitate writing with left hand)
“And I hope it doesn’t smell!” (Children repeat, holding nose with left hand)
“Yeah the left hand makes an L.” (Children repeat, making L again with left hand)
“The right one is the other.” (Children repeat, holding up right hand)
“Do you use it to color?” (Children repeat, imitating wide drawing strokes in the air with right hand)
“Can you clap with one another?” (Children repeat and slap the right hand of someone nearby)
“Yeah the right one is the other.” (Children repeat, holding up right hand)
(Say together with child while clapping a steady beat) “Do you know which hand your left one is, do you know which hand is right? If you can repeat this little rhyme you’ll figure it out all right.”
*Visit www.musicwithmscarissa.com to contact Ms. Carissa for your copy of this song and many other on the Dreaming Monster Pre-Releas CD!
Try singing that with your child or class each day for about 4 days. The fifth day, say, “Show me your right hand,” then, “Show me your left.” They may even be able to tell you how they know! Keep on using music to teach. The possibilities are endless!
Feel free to post any topics you’re looking to teach about using song (counting, letters, negotiating, biting, etc…) and I’ll be sure to get back to you.
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