Clap, Stomp, and Spread Christmas Cheer

There's no doubt that the Christmas spirit is alive and well at the Hope Institute, at least during music therapy. One of the songs I've included in my December activities is a play on "We Wish You a Merry Christmas", which I found at the great site Preschool Education. It incorporates movement, following directions, and singing; in my opinion, that is the trifecta of elements that makes a great children's song.



Let's all do a little clapping,
Let's all do a little clapping,
Let's all do a little clapping,
And spread Christmas cheer.

Tapping (knees)
Stomping (feet)
Stretching (arms)
Nodding (head)

We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
And a Happy New Year!

I ask my students for other movement suggestions, and some of my more active kids love to jump, skip, and run in place. Other ideas are snapping fingers, whistling, and clicking the tongue. Be creative! Also, I always ask everyone to sing with me during the last verse. It is a great way to end the music session, because it's a familiar song that makes everyone feel good.