Every day of this summer so far, I’ve woken up with grand plans to update the blog, send out an email newsletter, or accomplish some other needle-moving task related to Listen & Learn Music. And every day, my grand plans have been derailed —- either by more pressing work-related duties or by my children, for whom I am the primary caretaker during the summer months.
But today is the day I finally get to cross at least one item off that list! Here’s a quick roundup of new songs you can add to your summer repertoire (bonus: they are quick to learn and fun to sing).
Summer Drummin’
Is there any better way to celebrate summer than by drumming? I don’t think so! In “Summer Drummin’” we will drum at the pool, in the shade, and in the sun. Show off all your drumming skills while we celebrate this sizzling season!
“Summer Drummin’” provides opportunities to address these objectives:
- Improve motor skills
- Increase seasonal awareness
- Increase ability to follow directions
- Improve object identification (see adaptations)
- Promote emotional expression (see adaptations)
Consider asking children what they like to do during the summer, and incorporate their answers into the song.
How Does the Rain Fall?
Every once in a while, I love a good summer afternoon rainstorm. It can be so peaceful to watch and listen to the rain fall. Does it fall slow and steady or heavy and strong? In “How Does the Rain Fall?” we’ll use a rainstick to demonstrate all the ways the rain may fall during the summer!
“How Does the Rain Fall?” provides opportunities to address these objectives:
- Increase critical listening skills
- Increase ability to utilize palmar grasp
- Improve fine motor skills
To encourage creativity and turn-taking, encourage each child to create their own rainfall, playing solo!
I’m Going Fishing
Many people enjoy fishing, especially in the summertime. There are so many creatures we can catch in the deep blue sea, like flounder, rainbow fish, and lobster. When we are fishing, it’s important to wait patiently for a fish to hook on our line. What will you catch?
“I’m Going Fishing” provides opportunities to address these objectives:
- Increase impulse control
- Increase object identification
- Increase fine motor skills
- Improve turn-taking skills
Consider having children sit in a circle with visuals of sea creatures placed in the middle of the group. Provide an opportunity for each participant to “catch” a fish from the pile of visuals!
Since summer is my FAVORITE season, I have no shortage of original and adapted songs dedicated to it. Check out my full summer collection right here, and let me know which songs you are rocking out to in June, July and August!
