Learning Through Action: Clapping Games with CD

3 reviews for Learning Through Action: Clapping Games with CD

1. 

   Circle Time – 3rd November 2016

   “20 different songs, with various clapping rhythms and suggested actions clearly laid out …. fun should be at the heart of all the activities we do and so far Clapping Games has provided plenty of that! I recommend it.” Child Care Magazine.

2. 

   Circle Time – 3rd November 2016

   5.0 out of 5 stars

   Excellent book – more suitable for Key Stage 1.
   Large book that contains clear pictures and actions for clapping along to familiar nursery rhymes. Haven’t listened to CD yet but don’t think it will be needed asthe songs are obvious anyway.
   Great for beginners – will be really useful for motivating children.

   By Natalie (Amazon)

3. 

   Circle Time – 3rd November 2016

   PRACTICAL PRE-SCHOOL This is a big book of clapping games presented as supporting the brain gym research. Brain gym is done by including movement in all focussed activities making children more open to learning by improving the physical ability of the brain to function. Jenny Mosley is most famous for her work on circle time and she is acknowledged as someone who encourages practitioners to develop the skills they need to support children’s personal, social and emotional development. This book will only enhance her reputation. With a brief synopsis of the theory behind whole brain learning at the beginning, the book exudes a sense of fund and enjoyment and would be a welcome addition to any setting from Foundation Stage to Key Stages 1 and 2. I could see this book being used by teachers of children with learning difficulties and by out-of-school groups. Each clapping game has at least a full page, with a key for the different types of clapping to use underneath the text. The games become more complex as you progress though the book. NURSERY WORLD This big book is ideal for sharing with a group of primary school-aged children. Twenty clapping games are included, suitable for beginners and experienced clappers, offering good opportunities for progression. The authors refer to the games as ‘whole-brain workouts’ since it is believed that the brain’s left and right hemispheres are used as children learn and store a programmed sequence of physical movements while engaging in a rhythmic and sensual experience. I tried the games with success at my out-of-school club, and would agree with the authors who suggest they are good for playtime, starting sessions on a positive note, as ‘wake-up’ activities and for restoring group harmony. The games are relatively easy to learn, thanks to excellent instructions and clear text, showing how and when to make all of the clapping moves. The authors give helpful tips on getting the most out of the games when working with groups. Humorous illustrations enhance the book’s appeal. They rhymes are also featured on an accompanying compact disc, included in the price. Some of the rhymes are traditional, and as is often the case with these, the odd casual reference to death, smoking and son on is included, which may not suit everyone. However, these rhymes can be avoided as the book is designed for dipping into as you wish.