Playing My Shoes
This activity resulted from spontaneous behavior in class last week! It was snowing and all the children had snow boots on. We created a musical instrument from the boots! The resulting laughter and good times made this activity a "keeper." The children enjoyed it because there was no "right" or "wrong" way to play!
Of course . . . teachers should demonstrate how to play first!
Line up children side-by-side sitting on the floor with their legs outstretched - boots on - toes pointing to the ceiling. Select one child to be the "player." Give the player two soft headed drum mallets. Allow the player to play the toes of the boots (a la a xylophone) while you (or the child) sings an improvisatory creative melody.
Lyrics we used were:
Playing my shoes while I'm singing the blues
Doo-bee, doo-bee, doo-bee, doo-bee, doo, doo doo . . .