Goals for the session

By the end, children should be able to move in time to a steady beat, remember a short sequence of eight counts, and add one movement of their own. Coordination, listening and cooperation all improve along the way.

Choose music with a clear, steady beat and age-appropriate lyrics. Instrumental tracks avoid many problems.

Sample session plan: build a group routine (50 minutes)

Ages 7-11, up to 24 children in groups of four. Materials: speaker and music, ribbons or scarves, hoops, floor space marked with tape.

• Warm-up (8 min): clap and step the beat, then march, sway and reach to the music. Add shoulder rolls and ankle circles.

• Rhythm game (7 min): 'echo clapping'. The leader claps a pattern of four beats; the group copies. Children take turns leading.

• Teach a sequence (10 min): eight counts. Step right, step left, turn, clap, reach up, reach down, jump, pose.

• Create (12 min): each group adds four counts of its own, using a ribbon or hoop if they wish.

• Share (6 min): groups perform to the class, who give one specific compliment each.

• Cool-down (7 min): slow music, stretches and deep breaths lying on the floor.

Safety, adapting and what children take away

Clear the floor of bags and chairs, and check it is not slippery. Children should dance in trainers or bare feet, not socks. Leave space between groups so ribbons and hoops do not collide. Performing is optional; a child can share from the side or with a partner.

For ages 6-7, use four-count sequences and animal movements such as stomping like an elephant. For ages 11-12, children can choose the music within limits you set, write their routine as a simple count sheet and teach it to another group.

Children take away a short routine they can repeat, better timing and the experience of creating something with others. Children who are hesitant often find confidence through the rhythm games before the dancing itself, so give those games enough time.

Film the group routines only with parental consent and your school's permission, and use the recording for the children to watch and improve, not to share publicly. Over several sessions, groups can join their sequences into a longer class routine and perform it at an assembly or a parents' afternoon.

Key points

• Start with a steady beat and echo clapping.

• Teach a short sequence, then let groups add their own.

• Keep performing optional and compliments specific.

• Check the floor and footwear before starting.

Ready-made resources

Printable session plans and materials for this topic are available from EduTrend Contents: G4C-140 Move & Play Games.

Photos: Anna Khromova, Astrid Schaffner / Unsplash