When I’m in a preschool class, I sing ALL. THE. TIME. The running joke is that we are professional singers even though we are not great singers by any means. To name a few, we sing to teach new concepts, we sing during transitions, and we sing to help children calm down. For more information on how I use music in therapy check out this older blog post.
A teacher who I used to work with taught me one of my favourite songs, “Ducks Like Rain.” It is perfect for spring or farm themes. It’s ideal for preschoolers, but kindergarten children also like it. It works well one-on-one and in groups. Children who are hard to engage frequently respond to this song. As well, it’s perfect for children who are just starting to talk, are using PECS, or using other types of visual communication systems.
The only props you need for this song is a spray bottle full of water and any communication systems you may be using. Click here for a copy of the lyrics. How I use this is that I will sing most of the song and then pause when we get to the “quacks.” I then wait until the child(ren) responds with “quack” and then I spray them with water. Some kids don’t like to get sprayed. I then teach them to respond with a phrase such as “don’t spray” which I then honor. Here I am singing it for you.
If the children want to hear it again, then I wait for “sing again,” or “more ducks” or some such response. One reason I like this is that it doesn’t take long to sing. Many children sing or do the actions during the song, so they become active participants.
Let me know how it goes if you try it out!
