Fun, Fall Singing Time

Often times we become so wrapped up in preparing for the Sacrament Meeting Program that we forget about the sheer enjoyment of singing.  Here a a few songs to intersperse with the program songs.  Many have actions and you can be creative with some of the words.

• Do as I'm Doing - rack leaves, pick apples, mop/vacuum the floor, bake a cake, etc.
• Fun to Do - racking leaves, eating an apple, making my bed, picking up toys, riding a scooter, etc.
• Popcorn Popping - Try these words for Autumn season:

 I looked out the window and what did I see?
Autumn leaves were falling from the tree.
Fall has brought me such a nice surprise,
Leaves all colors fall before my eyes. 
I could rake the leaves into one big pile,
A mound so high it just made me smile.
My feet began to run,
Leap and oh, what fun!
What a treat the autumn leaves can be!

Wiggle Time

It is important to teach the gospel through music, however, singing some "active" songs during singing time helps keep wiggles under control.  Take time to learn several of these songs so you can use them when children are a little restless, seem tired, or just need a change of pace.  Here is a list of songs that can be sprinkled throughout sharing and singing time:

• Sing a Song  p. 253  Start with hands on hips then to knees, shoulders, hips, knees, etc. moving with the high and low notes of the song.  It can also be sung as a round.
• Fun to Do  p.253  Have a child choose an action then do it as you sing.  There are suggestions under the song.
• Here We Are Together  p. 261  There are several suggestions at the bottom of the page.  Children can also choose their own actions.
• If You're Happy  p. 266  There are many things you and/or the children can do while singing this song.
• Two Little Eyes  p. 268  This is a great one for younger children and can be used in classes to change activities.
• I Wiggle  p. 271   Another good "wiggle" song for younger children.
• My Hands  p. 273  This song is fun to do at a slow tempo or a very fast one.
• Roll Your Hands  p. 274  Quick action song to rest children from sitting.
• Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes  p. 275  Quick action song to rest children from sitting.  Can be sung at various tempos, too.
• To Get Quiet  p. 275  Great way to settle children down before class, sharing time or prayer.
• Do as I'm Doing  p. 276  An all time favorite with a many possibilities for movement.
• Hinges  p. 277  This song can be sung at various tempos, but try to end slowly for reverence.
• Stand Up  p. 278  You need to listen in order to do the correct actions.
• Oh, How We Love to Stand  p. 179  There are lots of different actions to do with this song.
• Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise  p. 180  When children know this well, they enjoy singing as a round.
• The Wise man and the Foolish Man  p. 281  Children love singing this song with the actions!