I also teach a few "core" songs every year, because they are expected, and for the most part are songs the kids already know. Sunshine Moms & Dads, it would be great if you can help them with these at home. Every year we have just a few lessons to learn all the songs we sing for the Christmas party, because I won't start before Halloween!
Every year:
- Jingle Bells -- we ring the bells on the chorus, but not the verse. (just one verse)
- Away in a Manger -- one verse with hand motions
- Up on the Housetop -- one verse with whole body motions
- We Wish You a Merry Christmas -- with other verses like "let's all do a little clapping and spread Christmas cheer"
- Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer -- with Teacher Teri's cute hand motions
Two special songs for this year:
 |
| Old Toy Trains sung by Terry Kelly |
Because we have a western theme this year, but I totally failed at finding an easy cowboy Christmas song, I went for a Country Western song that is sweet & simple. If you want to help your child learn this song, please download the same version we are using in school. This artist sings "boys and girls" in place of the traditional phrase "little boy", so the girls don't get left out.
He also sings it in a perfect range & gentle tempo, and has such a warm voice.
For the instrumental bit, we chug-a-chug like trains.
Simple hand motions I made up:
Old toy trains, little toy tracks (children move a hand like they are pushing a toy train)
Little toy drums (pretend they are playing drum)
Coming from a sack (lift both hands like taking something from a sack)
Carried by a man, dressed in white & red (one thumb hitched over shoulder like carrying a sack)
Boys & girls, don't you think it's time you were in bed (folded hands on shoulder - the "sleep" motion)
Close your eyes (hands over eyes)
Listen to the skies (one hand sweeps air, look up at hand)
All is calm, all is well (lower both hands, palms down)
Soon you'll hear Kris Kringle and the jingle bells (mime ringing jingle bells)
Must Be Santa
Because it is easy & cute, and I just can't do the Hippopotamus song every year. We sing the first three verses only. Here's a link to a you tube with nice illustrations.
No comments:
Post a Comment