We are starting to explore the ‘pattern of the words’ and I was delighted that the children were able to tap out the rhythm for ‘Old Mr. Woodpecker’ and then copy different four beat patterns using the first two elements we will introduce. (crotchet and paired quavers) which we will introduce as ‘ta’ and ‘ti-ti’. For now, we aren’t naming any elements. There are several stages we will need to go through before we start naming elements.

Prerequisite Skills for introducing the concept of ‘beat’

• The students will be able to ‘keep time’ consistently, using body percussing, instruments and while walking. The latter is the most difficult, especially for young children. It’s helpful to start with fast tempos for their smaller legs

Prerequisite Skills for introducing the concept of ‘rhythm’

• The students will demonstrate the ability to play the ‘pattern of the words’, consistently and unassisted.

We introduced one of our favourite ta and ti ti/so mi songs, Cukoo Cherry Tree, with the rainbow ring, with children ‘changing place’ when the colour they are holding is called. Using the rainbow ring allows us to model following the contour of the song, and having several parents in the circle really helps reinforce that.

I was so pleased with how quickly the children picked up their first ‘travelling partner game’, Bow Wow Wow, and they really loved it. It’s so fun to get a new partner each time. We swivel on the last beat of the song, which is a crotchet rest. This song is going to be handy for many things, being full pentatonic with obvious phrases. At this stage we are building much of the repertoire we will use to build elements.