Dancing is one of the easiest objectives to include in music lessons because it doesn't require any extra materials. Use this opportunity to work on skills such as hopping on one foot or strengthening balance. Teach the children that the style of dance changes as the song changes. Some songs require fast steps, while other songs are more suitable for slow movement. This helps children train their ears to listen for the music tempo and beats. Make it even more enjoyable by playing a musical version of Simon Says to see if the students can copy your dance moves.
Preschoolers love singing songs while acting them out. This activity is a good foundation for story comprehension and retelling skills that children will use as they read books. Create a finger play for a song that your children love to sing, or have them help you come up with the motions. You can also turn songs into dramatic play by acting out the songs or rhymes.
Help children find the beat by encouraging them to clap or stomp as they sing. Rhythm sticks and tambourines are good instruments for preschoolers to practice with. You can also make your own instruments by putting pebbles or beans in sealed plastic bowls. Once students have identified the beat, teach them about rhythms and patterns. Challenge them to copy a rhythmic pattern that you play for them. These activities help children to build both gross and fine motor skills.
Props can help children identify the different characteristics of music while building coordination. Use scarves to demonstrate how notes can go higher or lower. Children can reach way up high with the scarves when the notes go up and then crouch on the ground when the notes are low. You can also use streamers to show how some melodies are relaxed and smooth while others have a quick, staccato tempo.