Here is a list of songs we use in circle time (in a rotation) and ideas of what to do with them:
All songs can be found on itunes
List will be updated as we add songs
LB=Laurie Berkner Band
MT=Music Together
SG=Sovereign Grace
Twinkle, Twinkle--I sing it acapella while signing most of the words. The signs for "twinkle", "star", and "diamond" are her favorites.
Jesus Loves Me-- Singing acapella with signs.
We are the Dinosaurs(LB)-- Stomping feet and drumming drums
Pig on her head-- I have the song on my ipod, but I prefer to sing this simple song acapella and use our names and our animals. So fun!
Rocketship Run--mixture of movement and hand props for Sun, Moon, Stars and Earth. Twirling and flying is a big part of this song. :)
Moon, Moon, Moon--great winding down song, so fun to use with flowy, sheer scarves. LB likes it when I swirl them around her head and over her face, or toss them in the air so they float down.
She Sells Seashells (MT)-- another good wind down/scarves song.
Buzz, Buzz, Buzz (LB)---Tickle time during Buzz chorus, shakers and movement during verses. I'd love to find a bumblebee toy or puppet for this song!
Notes from my experience: Be okay with being the only one jumping around and banging on drums, signing, etc. Little ones need to have the freedom to watch and experience before they imitate, and will join in when they are ready. I often wonder what someone would think if they peeked into our front window during circle time. They would see a Mama going nuts and looking very silly, but the little ones love it. I engage and encourage LB as much as I can, but I don't try to get her to DO anything. She ends up joining in quite a bit, and the songs/activities are tailored to what I know will get her attention.
