Rhythm Time: Objective 

Rhythm Time provides a wonderful opportunity to train young children in an active, enjoyable, structured manner. The following pattern will give you a picture of how to carry out Rhythm Time progressively and successfully. You may want to include some friends or neighbors for this activity.

General Guides

The first six weeks should be consecutive to establish a good pattern; however, after that you will want to insert some weeks without Rhythm Time for variety and interest. See the last Rhythm Time section for a description of instruments.

Keep Rhythm Time structured and moving. Praise children for cooperation frequently but quickly. Give instructions one time, and keep them clear and concise. Do not allow Rhythm Time to get out of control. When cooperation or interest declines, collect the instruments quickly and move to another activity such as Concentration Cards.

If you have a week when you must end quickly to maintain control, go back to hand clapping the following week and add sticks and further activities as cooperation is achieved and maintained. When handled carefully, this fun, structured time will help establish cooperative participation as the weeks progress.

With activities like Concentration Cards and Rhythm Time, both children and parents can have something to look forward to at various times or at a regular special time rather than being apprehensive about what to do next.

Progressive Pattern

The following pattern of weeks provides a progressive, structured manner in which to implement Rhythm Time. Begin each week by sitting in a circle on the floor, the children with all hands in laps. Tell the children they can be part of the group as long as they cooperate.

Topic Sections 

Objective
Weeks 1-2
Week 3
Weeks 4-9
Weeks 10-14