Clap for Classics!

Follow Clap for Classics!
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Clap for Classics! is a music education podcast for kids ages 2-6. Join Ms. Elizabeth and Forte the Lion while we sing, move our bodies, learn about great classical music and more! Toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners will love the engaging activities and parents will love the rich educational material found in each episode.

Elizabeth Nixon


    • May 29, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 13m AVG DURATION
    • 71 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Clap for Classics! podcast is an absolute gem for parents and children alike. This podcast provides a fun and engaging way to introduce classical music to young listeners. With the help of Forte the Lion and Miss Elizabeth, children can learn about different composers, musical terms, and even participate in interactive activities. The episodes are packed with quality content that keeps little ones entertained and promotes a love for music.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is its ability to captivate young listeners. Children as young as two years old are clapping, pointing, and requesting episodes by name. The engaging nature of the podcast makes it enjoyable for both children and adults to listen to together. It's a perfect addition to car rides or any time you want your child to have a meaningful and educational audio experience.

    Another great aspect of Clap for Classics! is its educational value. The podcast introduces classical vocabulary, music theory concepts, rhythm, tempos, dynamics, and more in a way that is accessible and fun for young children. The short format of the episodes keeps little ones engaged throughout without overwhelming them with too much information at once. As a classically trained pianist herself, Miss Elizabeth brings her expertise to the table in a way that is informative yet entertaining.

    While it's challenging to find any major drawbacks with this podcast, one minor criticism could be that some listeners may prefer longer episodes. However, given the target audience (young children), the shorter format works well to maintain their attention spans while still delivering meaningful content.

    In conclusion, The Clap for Classics! podcast is a fantastic resource for parents looking to introduce their children to classical music in an engaging and enjoyable way. With its high-quality content, interactive activities, and knowledgeable host, it's no wonder that this podcast has garnered rave reviews from parents around the world. Whether you're a music lover or simply want your child to develop an appreciation for music from an early age, this podcast is a must-listen.



    Search for episodes from Clap for Classics! with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Clap for Classics!

    70. Presto Storms and Musical Waves: Ocean Fun for Little Listeners

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 18:21


    Ready to make a splash? Join Ms. Elizabeth, Forte the Lion, and special guest Charlotte for a fun-filled ocean-themed music adventure! This episode is packed with interactive songs, musical movement, and a listening adventure to Vivaldi's Summer. We'll explore echo singing, legato and staccato movement, and the energetic rhythms of a summer thunderstorm.

    69. Sing, Snap & Swim: A Filipino Crab Song + Classical Music Adventure!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2025 17:21


    In this fun-filled episode, Forte the Lion takes us on a musical journey to the Philippines, where we learn a silly and catchy folk song called “Tong Tong Tong Pakitong-Kitong”—all about a giant crab!

    68. Clap, Sing, and Play: Music Activities for Babies That Boost Development

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2025 13:18


    Welcome to Clap for Classics!, where music and learning go hand in hand! In today's sweet and playful episode, we're sharing three favorite activities from our Nursery Rhyme Baby Time course—perfect for babies and toddlers, but fun for the whole family. Whether you're gently guiding your baby's hands or marching with a preschooler, this episode is full of joyful, musical bonding moments.

    67. Musical Fossils: Dance, Play & Learn with Saint-Saëns!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 15:33


    Don't Miss This Freebie! Head over to www.clapforclassics.com/episode67 to download a FREE printable that brings today's episode to life! What's Inside? A lyric sheet for our fun, interactive song "I Am a Fossil" A musical map to help your little one follow along with Fossils from Carnival of the Animals It's the perfect way to extend the learning and play beyond the podcast! ✨

    66. Ella's Hello, Joplin's Jazz, and Gospel Joy: A Musical Tribute to Black History Month

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2024 15:10


    It is February, and it is Black History Month! Today we're sharing music we love by black artists of the 20th century. Hello, by Ella Jenkins Hello hello hello and how are you I'm fine I'm fine and I hope that you are too Sing this song with any variation you can think of, soft, loud, humming, whistling, la la la-ing! Ella Jenkins has been dubbed the “The First Lady of the Children's Folk Song.” Here is a playlist of some of our favorites, but be sure to check her out with your kids, we think you'll love her music as much as we do. To watch a mini class where Ms. Elizabeth and her 5 kids share 3 Ella Jenkins songs click here: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/ellajenkins This Little Light of Mine This little light of mine (tap knees), I'm gonna let it shine, (arms: up down up down) This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. (dance in a circle) This iconic American gospel song has been energizing and uniting diverse groups of people for nearly a century. It's impossible to sing this song without moving your body and feeling a spark of excitement and purpose. It is a great song to sing with kids because the words are so repetitive, and the message is so positive! We've added some simple actions to each verse, and suggested a flashlight activity for the second time through -- kids and flashlights always seem to be drawn to each other, right? Don't miss these incredible renditions of this song by these famous black artists. Aretha Franklin Sister Rosetta Tharpe Fannie Lou Hamer Maple Leaf Rag Scott Joplin Performed by Stefano Ligoratti. Recording used with permission. https://musopen.org/music/43164-maple-leaf-rag/#recordings You don't want to miss this recording of Scott Joplin performing this piece himself! Join our All Access Membership for access to activities like the ones found on this podcast. The membership includes: Over 250 engaging and educational music lesson videos. Comprehensive music courses organized by theme, for example: "Carnival of the Animals", "Peter and the Wolf," "Rhymes and Games," etc. Printable resources, including lesson plan ideas, parent programs, instrument and animal puppet printables, coloring pages, and more! Extensive "Notes to the Grown-ups" for each lesson, so that you can see exactly what your child is learning, with ideas on how to adapt and extend the lessons. Downloadable audio tracks of the classical music as well as the activities, so that you can listen off screen. Get signed up at: www.clapforclassics.com/join Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    65. Love Songs for Little Ones

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2024 15:21


    This is an episode with love songs for our little ones. We include one folk song, one Clap for Classics! original song, and the beautiful Waltz from Tchaikovsky's ballet, Sleeping Beauty. Love Somebody This is an Appalachian folk song, originally a fiddle tune. Love somebody yes I do, Love somebody yes I do, Love somebody yes I do, Love somebody but I won't say who. Love my mommy yes I do, Love my mommy yes I do, Love my mommy yes I do, Love my mommy and she loves me too! This song is a fun and easy one to adapt for multiple ages. For babies: rock your baby and make eye contact with them as you sing this song. Insert the names of your family members and loved ones. Look at a map and find the Appalachian Mountains What your child is learning: Steady beat Movement to music The repetition in the words, and simple melody makes this a great song for little ones to develop verbal skills The Sleeping Beauty, Op. 66- Valse Allegro, Tchaikovsky. Watch a video of Elizabeth and Charlotte teaching and dancing to the sleeping beauty waltz: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/sleeping-beauty-waltz If you'd like to purchase our Fairy Tale Course where we tell even more of the story of Sleeping Beauty as well as incorporate other fairy tales and wonderful music, you can find it in our Fairy Tales and Nursery Rhymes bundle, or inside our All Access Membership. Will you waltz with me, Will you be my partner please? If you will, I'll spin you around And round, then give you a squeeze Pretty please will you waltz with me Will you be my partner please? Waltzing is my favorite thing in the world! Many thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music for us to use in the podcast and in our courses. Let's Sing a Song About Hugs. Written by Kathryn Lieppman, it is a Clap for Classics! original and features Kathryn Lieppman and Elizabeth Nixon on ukulele and vocals, and Imogene Lieppman (age 4) on vocals and desk bells. You can watch this video on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmKolRJchIg Let's sing a song about hugs! Chorus: Some are tight And some are gentle Some are short And some are long and sentimental A hug can help you feel okay If you get a little boo boo Or you're having a rough tough day Try and hug it all away Chorus A hug can help you share some love With a very special grownup Taking care of you So hug ‘em all day through Chorus A hug can help you cheer a friend When she seems a little sad You can bend her frown back to a smile Just hug her for a while Chorus A hug can help you feel so great But sometimes we just need some personal space (And that's ok, too!) To join the membership for all the musical content we've ever created, and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    64. Hungry and Hibernating Bears

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2024 14:57


    Grab our free printable arctic animal cards to extend the learning and fun of this episode at www.clapforclassics.com/episode64 For more winter content from our Four Seasons Course check out episode 38 and episode 39. Clear some space to move for the first activity! This is a song/activity that just needs to be experienced again and again. Your child will love pretending to hibernate, and waking you up when spring returns. Learn the song so that you can sing it away from the screen. Feel free to expand the story as you repeat the song for the 5th, 10th or 20th time. (What is the bear eating? Where is the bear running? What is the den like? What does the bear say when s/he wakes up for spring time?) In Spring and Summer I'm a bundle of fun! I play and growl and run run run! (run run run! Run run run!) In fall I'm busy eating food. I eat and eat and eat and eat (and eat and eat and eat and eat) ‘Til winter chills my mood Now it's time to hibernate I slow down and take a break I curl up in my cozy den And rest ‘til spring returns again… The second activity is a song and a game! Play hide and seek! The polar bear is ‘it' and the seal/s hide while the polar bear sings the song. When the polar bear gets to the word LUNCH, s/he goes to find the seals. The seal/s can give clues to their location by playing a rhythm instrument like a shaker. You can optionally use our printable arctic animals, and hide the seal card instead of having someone “be” the seal. Learn more about polar bears and seals. Start with our printable Arctic Animal Cards (pictures on the front, and facts on the back) - then dive deeper by checking out books from the library or doing your own online research. My blubber keeps me nice and warm My fur's as white as snow I smell a seal from miles away, And then I've got to go I've got to go find that seal, cuz I'm hungry! I've got to go find that seal for my lunch! To get ALL of our Four Seasons Content that includes art, poetry and STEM units for each season in addition to the music content that you know and love- go to www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons. To join the membership for all the musical content we've ever created, and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com Music credit: Kathryn Lieppman wrote both of the songs that we share in the episode today.

    63. Flashlights, bird feeders, skittles and cornflakes! A sneak peek into the Winter Four Seasons Curriculum

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2024 15:00


    Today we're sharing a sneak-peek inside our Four Seasons Curriculum. Check out all the details and snag the year-long course at www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons Music We start with one of our favorite songs from the winter course: Down with Darkness. We have fun using flashlights and a drum while we learn this song. Down with darkness, up with light Up with sunshine, down with night Each of us is one small light But together we shine bright Go away darkest blackest night Go away -- give way to light Art For the winter course, Ms. Krisanne, our wonderful art teacher, introduces us to the artist Peter Bruegel and his wintry paintings. STEM The winter course is all about color! Dr. Rojas put together 4 stem labs that encourage curiosity, observation, and teach lots of scientific concepts in age-appropriate ways. Poetry Ms. Leslie and Ruby bring seasonal poetry to life. We share Charlotte's favorite on the episode: DECEMBER LEAVES by Kaye Starbird The fallen leaves are cornflakes That fill the lawn's wide dish, And night and noon The wind's a spoon That stirs them with a swish. The sky's a silver sifter, A-sifting white and slow, That gently shakes On crisp brown flakes The sugar known as snow. Tune in to the other Four Seasons Curriculum sneak peek episodes: Spring Summer Autumn To join the membership and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    62. The Nutcracker Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2023 13:52


    Inside our All Access membership we have a Nutcracker music course for young kids! It is an immersive experience with Tchaikovsky's iconic ballet. You and your kids will be experiencing the story and music of the Nutcracker through songs, games, active listening, instrument playing, and using your imagination right alongside Ms. Elizabeth and her daughter Charlotte. To join the membership and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Alternatively, you can purchase just the Nutcracker course on it's own or as part of our Holiday Bundle at www.clapforclassics.com/store Grab a free printable of hand-drawn images of the characters from the Nutcracker. www.clapforclassics.com/episode61. We like to make simple popsicle stick puppets out of ours to play with while we listen to the music. Kids can also use them to retell and act out the story on their own! For more ideas on how to supplement your Nutcracker study at home with young kids, including ideas on how to watch the ballet at home, check out this article: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/nutcrackerresources Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    61. Introducing the Nutcracker!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2023 14:14


    Join us for even more Nutcracker fun, sign up for our FREE 5 day Nutcracker challenge that starts December 4th. www.clapforclassics.com/nutcracker2023 Grab a free printable of hand-drawn images of the characters from the Nutcracker. www.clapforclassics.com/episode61. We like to make simple popsicle stick puppets out of ours to play with while we listen to the music and during this episode. Kids can also use them to retell and act out the story on their own! Inside our All Access membership we have a Nutcracker music course for young kids! It is an immersive experience with Tchaikovsky's iconic ballet. You and your kids will be experiencing the story and music of the Nutcracker through songs, games, active listening, instrument playing, and using your imagination right alongside Ms. Elizabeth and her daughter Charlotte. To join the membership and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Alternatively, you can purchase just the Nutcracker course on it's own or inside our Holiday Bundle at www.clapforclassics.com/store This episode is a re-air of episode 35 and next we will re-air episode 36. Your kids will have fun coming back to these same activities year after year. They will learn more each time they listen. For more ideas on how to supplement your Nutcracker study at home with young kids check out this article: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/nutcrackerresources Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    60. "I Like Pie." The Thanksgiving soundtrack with Kathryn Lieppman

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2023 9:08


    Grab our free printable that goes along with this song at www.clapforclassics.com/episode60 You'll want some forks, a shaker, or any instrument to play along with us today. We are the first to get to hear Kathryn Lieppman's brand new recording of “I Like Pie.” The song will be available wherever you stream music soon! Follow her on IG @kathrynpianist Looking for ways to bring more music into your home? Check out our All Access Membership at www.clapforclassics.com/join or our Four Seasons Music and More Curriculum at www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    59. "Who Are The People You Go To?" with Special Guest Miss Julieann

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2023 12:39


    Sing, clap, dance along with Miss Julieann, Forte and Ms. Elizabeth during this episode. We talk about the people we can go to when we need support or when we're having big feelings. Miss Julieann is an award winning children's musician and therapist. Her brand new album, RESILIENT CHILD, was created to teach resilience skills to children and their caregivers. Find Miss Julieann: On her website: https://www.missjulieann.com/ On youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtkmZcvcjxBy6NSGbZEN5dA On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missjulieannmusic Go listen to her new album “Resilient Child” wherever you stream your music! Looking for ways to bring more music into your home? Check out our All Access Membership at www.clapforclassics.com/join or our Four Seasons Music and More Curriculum at www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    58. Cats and Hats!: Peter and the Wolf and the Scarlatti Cat Fugue with Classical Sprouts

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2023 21:58


    Grab our brand new free Peter and the Wolf Flashcards to extend the fun and learning of this episode: www.clapforclassics.com/episode58 Today's episode is all about cats! We listen to some of the cat excerpts from Peter and the Wolf, learn about the clarinet, discuss and practice the differences between the dynamic markings of forte and piano. We learn a Kitty Cat Hat Game to the melody of the clarinet/cat theme from Peter and the Wolf. Grab a hat for this activity and have fun! Lyrics written by Kate Lieppman Call me cat, kitty cat I can wear a hat Or take it off and sneak it over to my friend Special Guest Kate Botello from one of our favorite podcasts: Classical Sprouts shares Scarlatti's Cat Fugue We have 3 other podcast episodes that feature Peter and the Wolf. Check them out! Episode 3: What Kind of Bird Are You? A Peter and the Wolf Sneak Peek Episode 19: Peter and the Wolf: Meet the Characters Episode 48: Peter and the Wolf, the String Family and a Meadow Song Here are a few links to some of our favorite recordings of Peter and the Wolf: YouTube: live orchestra version by Vancouver Symphony Spotify: David Bowie narrates Peter and the Wolf, played by Philadelphia Orchestra Amazon Music: Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, narrated by Sir John Gielgud Looking for ways to bring more music into your home? Check out our All Access Membership at www.clapforclassics.com/join use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month. Or try our Four Seasons Music and More Curriculum at www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    57. "I Am Enough" with Special Guest Miss Katie Sings

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2023 11:04


    Today we are so excited to have a very special guest singing a very special song. Miss Katie from Miss Katie Sings just came out with this beautiful new song that shares such an important message. It is a call and response song, it is easy to sing along to and you and your little one will love it! Here are the lyrics: I am enough You are enough We make space For all of us We are different And we're the same That's great, we say Hooray! Hooray! Find Miss Katie On her website: www.misskatiesings.com On youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MissKatieSings On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misskatiesings/ Go listen to her new single “I am Enough” wherever you stream your music! Looking for ways to bring more music into your home? Check out our All Access Membership at www.clapforclassics.com/join or our Four Seasons Music and More Curriculum at www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    56. Vivaldi's Autumn Party

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2023 13:52


    For this activity you can grab some rhythm sticks, a scarf, and a pillow! We'll be enjoying Vivaldi's “Autumn” the whole first movement. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much fun you and your kids will have while engaging with this beautiful music. Get your hands on the free printable now at www.clapforclassics.com/episode56. It is a PDF with a listening map for this classical music activity. It's a great way to extend the learning with a visual representation of what is happening in the music. We are teaching musical form in this episode, and your child will experience the form through movement and then the listening map will help solidify the concept. Check out the blog post where we share this activity in video form. https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/vivaldiautumnparty This activity comes from our “Autumn All Around” course that can be found both inside our Four Seasons Music and More Curriculum, as well as inside our All Access Membership. For another engaging musical activity to accompany Vivaldi's “Autumn” check out this video: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/autumn In this activity we enjoy the 3rd movement of the Autumn Concerto. Do you have kids hungry for more and more!! Extend the learning even further by watching this video that will give you some great information about who Vivaldi was and about his Four Seasons violin concertos. https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/vivaldi4seasons To get information about our Four Seasons Course go to www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons To learn all about our All Access Membership go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. And don't forget that as a podcast listener you can get 50% off your first month of the membership by using the coupon code “LION.” Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! Leave Forte a joke and be featured on an upcoming podcast! www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics Classical music for this podcast is licensed to us for our use by Classical.com

    55. Apples, art, poetry and STEM: Exploring the Four Seasons Music and More Curriculum.

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2023 16:40


    Today we're sharing a sneak-peek inside our Four Seasons Curriculum. Check out all the details and snag the year-long course at www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons We start with a song and a poem, and then our art and STEM teacher share a little introduction of what they will be teaching in the autumn unit. You do not want to miss all the wonderful nature-inspired learning that you and your little one will be doing as you explore the outdoors, use your imagination, sing, and create together. Music: Way Up High in the Apple Tree Way up high in the apple tree, Two little apples smiled at me. I shook that tree as hard as I could. DOWN came the apples Mm-mmm were they good! Poetry: Autumn Woods by James S. Tippett I like the woods In autumn When dry leaves hide the ground, When the trees are bare And the wind sweeps by With a lonesome rushing sound. I can rustle the leaves In autumn And I can make a bed In the thick dry leaves That have fallen From the bare trees Overhead. Art: To see photos of the Andy Goldsworthy's pieces that Ms. Krisanne referenced in this video check do a google search for Andy Goldsworthy's land art examples. Poetry lesson by Leslie Thomas Art lesson by Krisanne Knudsen STEM lesson by Eugenia Rojas Go to www.clapforclassics.com/about for more information on our guest educators. We have a Four Seasons curriculum sale coming up on September 11th. To make sure you are the first to know about the sale, you can get on our email list at www.clapforclassics.com/email Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    54. "Move Like the Animals Do" with Special Guest Georgie from Tambourine Social

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2023 11:28


    Join us in our All Access Membership for a library of activities like the ones on this podcast. Check out the details at www.clapforclassics.com/join. We're so happy to feature Georgie from the Tambourine Social on today's episode. She gets us moving our body while she shares a really fun song about Australian animals: “Move Like the Animals Do.” Find her podcast, “Toddler Tunes”, wherever you listen to podcasts. Stream her music on spotify or any other streaming service. Search for “The Tambourine Social.” Find her on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmDhQvHGDcqc8EUapdDPgMg Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    53. Presto, Saint-Saëns' Wild Donkey, teaches us about tempo, rhythm and beat

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2023 16:44


    Come to the Carnival with Ms. Elizabeth and friends and get a glimpse inside our All Access Membership with 5 days of classical music inspired activities for your and your little ones! Sign up for this free event at www.clapforclassics.com/carnival23 On today's episode we share 2 activities from our "Carnival of the Animals" course. First, you get to meet one of our beloved musical puppet friends, Presto the Donkey, inspired by the Wild Donkey of Saint-Saëns' Carnival of the Animals. We listen to the Wild Donkey movement and play freeze dance. For our second activity we learn a folk song about a donkey named Tingalayo that originated from the Caribbean. We use our egg shakers to practice beat and rhythm. We hope you enjoy the episode. For more Carnival of the Animals content sign up for our “Come to the Carnival” event at www.clapforclassics.com/carnival23 Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    52. "Waiting for the Elevator" with Special Guest Laurie Berkner

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2023 11:50


    Grab the free download that accompanies this activity at www.clapforclassics.com/episode52 it's a printable play packet with an elevator cut out, animal puppets, traceable numbers, and more! It is a great way to extend the learning and fun on this episode. We are thrilled to have well-known children's artist Laurie Berkner on the podcast today sharing her energetic song, “Waiting for the Elevator.” We'll be moving our bodies, dancing, making animal noises, working on memory and sequencing, but most of all just having fun! Want to hear more of Laurie's music? Find her on any streaming platform, on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheLaurieBerknerBand, on Instagram and TikTok or at her website: https://laurieberkner.com. To get access to a library of music courses with themes like Carnival of the Animals, Peter and the Wolf, the Four Seasons, Music from Around the World, Nursery Rhymes, Space, Farm, and more, join our All Access music membership and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    51. Gerswhin's Rhapsody on a Burger and Fries

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2023 11:12


    For today's episode we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes from last year. You won't want to miss this one, even if you've already heard it! Join Ms. Elizabeth, Wilder, and Riff the Pig as we share a wonderful piece of music from american composer George Gershwin. Grab some rhythm sticks and our free printable to extend this activity. The printable includes images of the instruments that we'll identify as we listen to this piece. Print them on cardstock and mount on popsicle sticks for puppets, or print two sets and use them to play memory with while you listen! Grab it at www.clapforclassics.com/episode22 This activity comes right out of our American Classics course that can be found inside our All Access Membership. Use the code LION to get 50% off your first month! We teach the theme to Rhapsody in Blue with a silly phrase, and we don't think you'll ever hear this piece again without thinking these words! Fries……… Ketchup and mustard And don't forget cheese On my hamburger dinner today! Want to extend the fun and learning even more? Join our All Access Membership for a library of activities just like the one in this podcast. Watch the animation from Fantasia 2000, accompanied by Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. Listen to the entire piece of music during bathtime, or mealtime. Continue listening for the “ketchup and mustard” theme, and listening for the clarinet, trumpet, and piano. Play a game of musical memory with the free printable from this episode. Just print out two pages of the cards. Learn more about our American Classics course found inside our All Access Membership. What your child is learning: Active engagement with a piece of classical music Active listening for a repeated theme Instrument identification: clarinet, trumpet, piano Music credit: Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the music on this podcast. “Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin, performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with Christopher O'Riley on piano and Barry Wordsworth conducting Lyrics to the theme written and performed as "Riff the Pig" by Co-founder Kathryn Lieppman.

    50. Forte Celebrates the 4th of July!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2023 12:32


    Celebrate our 50th episode, and the 4th of July with Forte and Charlotte! They take over the podcast and share a bunch of 4th of July jokes you won't want to miss. We finish out the episode with our Patriotic medley, 3 of our favorite patriotic tunes with simple ukulele chords. Grab the free PDF with the arrangement of the medley, ukulele chords and lyrics at www.clapforclassics.com/episode50. We also have a special coupon for you that is good for 20% on either our membership or our American Classics course. Use the code “PATRIOTIC23” until midnight on July 4th, 2023. Listen to Episode 22. "Gershwin's Rhapsody on a Burger and Fries" for a peek into our American Classics! Course and a very fun activity with Gershwin's wonderful "Rhapsody in Blue". And don't miss the freebie that goes with this episode as well: www.clapforclassics.com/episode22 Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    49. A Watermelon Song with Special Guest Stephanie Leavell

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2023 11:34


    We are thrilled to welcome Stephanie Leavell from Music for Kiddos as a guest teacher on our podcast today. She shares a very fun summery song with us about the juicy summer fruit: Watermelon. To find out more about Stephanie and what she does check out her website at www.musicforkiddos.com You can find her music on Spotify, or Youtube, or any other music platform that you use. Get access to all of our musical content for kids ages 2-8 inside our All Access Membership. Use the code “LION” at checkout to get 50% off the first month of your membership. Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com

    48. Peter and the Wolf, the String Family and a Meadow Song

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2023 14:16


    Grab our free PDF that accompanies this episode at www.clapforclassics.com/episode48. It is a printable with the instruments in the string family and Peter. Print these on cardstock and mount them on puppets for your little ones to play with while they listen to the episode, a fun way to enhance the learning and development. Get access to all of our musical content, including our Peter and the Wolf courses for kids ages 2-8 inside our All Access Membership. Use the code “LION” at checkout to get 50% off the first month of your membership. You can also purchase just the Peter and the Wolf content as a separate bundle, find it in our shop! Want to listen to more episodes that feature Peter and the Wolf? Try Episode 3, and Episode 19 and for another one that features the String Family listen to Episode 7. Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Classical music tracks are licensed for our use by Classical.com Music Credit: Peter and the Wolf, by Sergey Prokofiev (Andrea Licata (Conductor)/ Royal Philharmonic Orchestra / Sir John Gielgud (Narrator) Over in the meadow Over in the meadow in the sand in the sun, lived an Old mother turtle and her Little turtle one. "Dig," said the mother, "I dig," said the one, and they Dug all day in the sand in the sun. Over in the meadow where the Stream runs blue, lived an Old mother fish and her Little fishies two. "Swim," said the mother, "We swim," said the two, and they Swam all day where the stream runs blue. Over in the meadow in a hole in the tree, Lived an old mother owl and her Little owls three. "Whoo," said the mother, "We whoo," said the three, and they Whooed all day in the hole in the tree. Over in the meadow by the old barn door, Lived an old mother frog and her Little froggies four. "Jump," said the mother, "We jump," said the four, and they Jumped all day by the old barn door. Over in the meadow in a snug beehive, Lived an old mother bee and her Little bees five. "Buzz," said the mother, "We buzz," said the five, and they Buzzed all day in the snug beehive. One little turtle went dig dig dig dig dig Two little fishies went swim swim swim Three little owls went whoo--ooo-ooo Four little froggies went jump jump jump jump jump Five little bees went bzzz bzzzz bz bz bz bz bz

    47. Paddling, painting, and poetry!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2023 16:29


    Join us for this sneak peek inside our summer "Four Seasons" Curriculum. We'll share a song, learn a bit about Monet, imagine a summery sunball fight, and make a hypothesis about objects that will float or sink. To join is inside our Four Seasons Curriculum go to www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons. Get 20% off the curriculum for a limited time by using the code “SUMMER2023" at checkout. Optional props for this episode. Music: grab rhythm sticks and a box or basket that your little one can sit in and pretend it's a boat. Poetry: scarf STEM: a bunch of small objects that are made of different materials to test if they will sink or float. Paddling my Canoe, Traditional Iroquois song (found in Sing through the Seasons: ninety-nine songs for children, compiled and edited by the Society of Brothers) Gay-o way-o wa-ji-ne_ he-ya he, Paddling my canoe Gay-o way-o wa-ji-ne_ He-ya he-ya he, Paddling my canoe, Paddling my canoe. (sing twice) Sunflakes by Frank Asch If sunlight fell like snowflakes, gleaming yellow and so bright, we could build a sunman, we could have a sunball fight, we could watch the sunflakes drifting in the sky. We could go sleighing in the middle of July through sundrifts and sunbanks, we could ride a sunmobile, and we could touch sunflakes— I wonder how they'd feel. To learn even more details about our Summer Four Seasons Curriculum check out this blog post: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/summer Episode 24 of the podcast includes another song from our summer four seasons course: https://www.clapforclassics.com/podcasts/clap-for-classics/episodes/2147767173 Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Thank you to Classical.com for licensing the music for us to use on our podcast and inside our membership!

    46. Clip-clopping horses, balls and Bizet

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2023 12:49


    Grab a ball for this episode and get ready to move your body. This episode is a great one for all ages, but we especially wanted to feature some activities for our babies. Did you know we have a music course just for our very youngest musicians? Check out the details at www.clapforclassics.com/baby 1. Horsey Horsey. For this one either scoop up your little one and clip-clop around the room or pretend to be a horse and trot around. Swish your pretend tail, roll your hands, and don't forget to freeze on the word “stop.” Horsey horsey don't you stop Just let your feet go clippity clop Your tail goes swish and the wheels go round Giddyup we're homeward bound We're not in a hustle, we're not in a bustle Don't go tearing up the road We're not in a hurry, we're not in a flurry And we don't have a very heavy load 2. Jeux d'enfants, op. 22, 12. “Le Bal” by french composer Bizet Grab a ball to play with while you listen to this fast-paced movement from Bizet's fun set of Children's Games music. See if you can keep the ball moving for the whole movement. If you're looking for more examples of what our content for babies looks like, check out the following links that include videos and written content that will give you even more ideas of how to enjoy music with your baby. https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/baby https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/babies https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czaFRCFt7EA Don't miss Episode 4 of the podcast for more content specifically for babies. For a free PDF with 8 tips on how to make music with your baby- click on the following link: www.clapforclassics.com/babytips Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Thank you to Classical.com for licensing the music for us to use on our podcast and inside our membership!

    45. What do we do with our sticks Vivaldi?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2023 14:53


    To join our music membership for young kids and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! We share 2 activities that both include sticks. In honor of Earth Day we encourage kids to go outside and use sticks that they find outside. But rhythm sticks, pencils, or wooden spoons would work fine. What Can We Do With Our Sticks? (to the tune of Hickory Dickory Dock) What can we do with our sticks? We tap our sticks like this We tap them high (fast) We tap them low (slow) What can we do with our sticks? Have fun exploring all the different ways you can play your rhythm sticks! Get creative! 2. Spring: Concerto No. 1 in E Major, 3rd movement by Vivaldi 3 ways to use our sticks while we listen: Keep a steady beat Pretend to play the violin Be the conductor! Want more rhythm stick fun? Check out our blog post with a rhythm stick mini class and more information of the benefits of playing with rhythm sticks. https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/rhythmsticks Listen to Episode 10 of our podcast for more rhythm stick fun! https://www.clapforclassics.com/podcasts/clap-for-classics/episodes/2147703461 Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Thank you to Classical.com for licensing the music for us to use on our podcast and inside our membership!

    44. All about bunnies: songs for an egg-celent spring

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2023 17:20


    Come to our free live "Music from Around the World" zoom Class happening on Thursday April 20th at 12pm Eastern Time/ 9 am Pacific. (Recording will be available.) Sign up at www.clapforclassics.com/liveclass To join our music membership for young kids and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Grab some egg shakers for this episode (the more, the better!) 1. Bunny Pokey: You put your bunny ears in
, You put your bunny ears out, You put your bunny ears in, And you shake them all about. You do the Bunny Pokey, And you hop yourself around, That's what it's all about. Additional verses: You put your bunny nose in. You put your bunny paws in. You put your bunny tail in. 2. See the Sleeping Bunnies. See the sleeping bunnies, sleeping in till noon Shall we awake them with our merry tune Are they ill, why so still? (spoken) Wake up sleeping bunnies and hop hop hop, Wake up sleeping bunnies and hop hop stop! 3. Shaker Song (Sung to the tune of London Bridge is Falling Down) Shake your shaker up and down, up and down, up and down, Shake your shaker up and down, shake your shaker. Additional verses: Side to side Round and round Fast and slow 4. Our last activity is a steady beat shaker song, or a hide the eggs seek and find game with Vivaldi's Spring Concerto, the 1st movement. Watch a video of me and Charlotte teaching these songs on our YouTube channel. Episode 14 of the podcast is an episode all about eggs, perfect as a partner to this episode and to add on to your Easter-themed activities. Check out Episode 13 where we listen to this same piece of music (1st movement of Vivaldi's Spring Concerto), but in a completely different way! Spotify playlists you might enjoy: Spring classical music playlist: Steady Beat Classical playlist: Spring Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Thank you to Classical.com for licensing the music for us to use on our podcast and inside our membership!

    43. A train ride through Brazil with Villa Lobos and a folk song

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2023 15:11


    To join our music membership for young kids and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Today on the episode we're going on a trip to Brazil! 1. We first share a popular Brazilian folk song: Peixe Vivo, a love song about a fish (kind of). You might want to grab a blue scarf and some fish toys to play with while we sing this song. How could little fishies live If they're outside of the sea? How could I ever live? Without you, without you Without you close to me Como pode um peixe vivo Viver fora da agua fria Como poderei viver Como poderei viver Sem a tua, sem a tua Sem a tua companhia 2. Next we go on a train ride with a beautiful piece by Brazilian composer, Heitor Villa Lobos. This piece was written to sound like a steam engine traveling through the Brazilian countryside. Watch a video of Charlotte and I enjoying this fun train activity activity here: https://youtu.be/prR3e6veIA4 How to prepare to listen to this piece: Make room to move around the room like a train. Possibly set up a pretend train to “ride” in. (This can be as simple or as complex as you choose) Possibly grab some train toys How to adapt/extend this activity Put your kiddo in a laundry basket or a big box and turn on this video or the audio track while you take them for a “train ride” around the house. Draw pictures of the countryside, and/or pictures of trains while you listen to this piece Note about the music: This piece is entitled “The Little Train of the Caipira” by Heitor Villa-Lobos, from his longer set of pieces: Bachianas Brasileiras No. 2. Villa-Lobos wrote nine Bachianas Brasileiras suites, all of which combine Brazilian folk/popular music with styles and techniques of baroque composer JS Bach. Thank you to Classical.com who has licensed the classical music that we used on this episode and inside our membership. Be sure to check out another fantastic classical music podcast: Classical Sprouts, geared toward elementary age kids and beyond. Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast!

    42. Slumber Serenade: 3 Soothing Lullabies for Babies and Toddlers

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2023 10:43


    Grab a free PDF with lyrics and ukulele chords for the two lullabies shared here as well as 4 more lullabies that are found inside our membership. www.clapforclassics.com/episode42 To join our music membership for young kids and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! In this episode we share 2 of our favorite lullabies: "Hush Little Baby" and "Baby's Boat's a Silver Moon." One you might be familiar with and one that might be new! Then we end the episode with a beautiful rendition of Brahms Lullaby. Snuggle up for this calm episode and enjoy! To watch a video of another favorite lullaby of ours, Little Boy Blue, check out our youtube channel: https://youtu.be/6aUatEw8pYA Brahms Lullaby: Op.49 No.4 Wiegenlied / Lullaby performed by the Kiev Chamber Orchestra,Slovak Chamber Orchestra Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast!

    41. A musical sandwich with Samuel Coleridge-Taylor

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2023 10:42


    We take the guesswork out of early childhood education with our play-based, nature-infused, hands-on, engaging program. The "Four Seasons: Music and More" curriculum is an online program that encourages learning through play. Music, art, poetry and STEM are combined into a robust curriculum that you will enjoy experiencing alongside your little one. This curriculum is on sale for just a few more days. Use the code “SPRINGPREVIEW” until February 20th for 20% off the curriculum. We're also throwing in a bonus music course of your choice that you can input at checkout. Go to www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons for details and to order. You'll want rhythm sticks, scarves, and maybe 3 baskets or boxes for the activity on this episode. As always, props and instruments are optional. We explore and teach the concept of ABA form with a fun piece of music by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor. The piece is from Othello, Op. 79 - I. Dance Click here to listen to the recording of the piece. Want to hear more musical fun with black artists and composers? Check out Episode 6 of our podcast for 3 activities perfect to accompany your Black History Month study. Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast!

    40. A Cheesy Little Waltz

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2023 11:11


    Clap for Classics! is hosting a free sneak peek event soon! Sign up today and get a peek into our Spring “Four Seasons: Music and More Curriculum.” Event is February 13-15, but sign up now to make sure you don't miss it! Details are at: www.clapforclassics.com/springpreview Today on the podcast we share some information about the waltz, and practicing hearing and feeling the triple meter! We listen to clips of two different waltz pieces. The Skater's Waltz, by Waldteufel Roses from the South, by Strauss Listen to the them both on our Valentine spotify play list that can be found here We end the episode with one of our favorite Clap for Classics! Originals, a love songs, a cheesy little love song that is. To watch a video of the Mac ‘n Cheese song click here. Song is written by Kathryn Lieppman. Can't get enough waltzing? Here, Elizabeth and Charlotte are teaching and dancing to the sleeping beauty waltz. If you'd like some more Valentine content don't miss Episode 5 of the podcast: “Love Songs for Little Ones" We include the Sleeping Beauty Waltz, the Hug Song, and folk song! And here is one more video of some other fun Valentine songs for you and your little one to enjoy! Don't forget that your little one can be featured on the podcast by calling in and leaving us a joke! Click here to leave us a joke.

    39. Ice Skating with Vivaldi and a Penguin

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2023 15:43


    Grab a blanket and a couple paper plates for each listener if you can! As always, props are optional, but will enhance the engagement and fun! Today we share 2 activities that come straight from our “Winter Expedition with Vivaldi and Friends” music course. If you enjoyed the activities and want to experience the rest of the fun, you can join us at www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons. Our Four Seasons curriculum is more than just music, it also includes art, poetry, and STEM units. To hear the 1st movement of Vivaldi's Winter concerto, check out last week's episode here. 1. Our first activity is a Clap for Classics! Original written by Kathryn Lieppman. You'll need your blanket to take your little one on a ride at the end of the song! Have fun waddling and sliding on your tummy with us. Waddle waddle here and there Waddle waddle everywhere And when I need to take a break From waddling to and fro I get down on my tummy and say Ready - Set - Go! 2. You'll need your paper plate ice skates for this activity. We listen to the wintry music of Vivaldi's 3rd movement of the “Winter” concerto. We imagine skating, the ice cracking, a hot chocolate break, and then see what you can imagine happening at the end of the piece. Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review wherever you listen. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    38. Shivering in our mittens with Vivaldi

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2023 14:14


    Happy New Year! We're excited to be back for another season of Clap for Classics! episodes. This year new episodes will come out on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month, so be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss anything. Today we share 2 activities that come straight from our “Winter Expedition with Vivaldi and Friends” music course. If you enjoyed these musical play activities and want to experience the rest of the fun, you can join us at www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons. Our Four Seasons curriculum is more than just music, it also includes art, poetry, and STEM units. A perfect hands-on, play based curriculum for your toddler, preschooler, or kindergartner. Grab some mittens or use your imagination and see if you can come up with some actions while we sing this song! The Mitten Song Thumbs in the thumb place, fingers all together! This is the song we sing in mitten weather Thumbs in the thumb place, fingers all together! This is the song we sing in mitten weather When it is cold it doesn't matter whether Mittens are made of wool or finest leather This is the song we sing in mitten weather Thumbs in the thumb place, fingers all together! (credit goes to Marlys Swinger from the book “Songs of the Seasons, Ninety-Nine Songs for children”) For the second activity grab rhythm sticks and a scarf. We guide you through the 1st movement of Vivaldi's “Winter” concerto from the Four Seasons. You'll have fun shivering, stomping, keeping a steady beat and chattering your teeth. Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    37. Holiday episode: Dreidels and Jingle Bells

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2022 14:07


    Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas friends! This is our last episode of 2022 and we hope you enjoy making some holiday music with us. Grab a dreidel or spinning top, a scarf, and jingle bells for the 3 activities. I Have a Little Dreidel I have a little dreidel I made it out of clay And when it's dry and ready Then, dreidel I shall play Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made it out of clay And when it's dry and ready Then, dreidel I will play Angels We Have Heard on High Angels we have heard on high Sweetly singing o'er the plane And the mountains in reply Echoing their joyous strain Glooooooooriaaaaa Jingle Bells Dashing through the snow, in a one horse open sleigh O'er the hills we go, laughing all the way Bells on bobtails ring, keeping spirits bright What fun it is to ride and sing a sleighing song tonight. Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way Oh what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way Oh what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh To join the membership and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    36. Nutcracker Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2022 13:31


    Inside our All Access membership we have a Nutcracker music course for young kids! It is an immersive experience with Tchaikovsky's iconic ballet. You and your kids will be experiencing the story and music of the Nutcracker through songs, games, active listening, instrument playing, and using your imagination right alongside Ms. Elizabeth and her daughter Charlotte. To join the membership and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Alternatively, you can purchase just the Nutcracker course on it's own at www.clapforclassics.com/store Grab a free printable of hand-drawn images of the characters from the Nutcracker. www.clapforclassics.com/episode35. We like to make simple popsicle stick puppets out of ours to play with while we listen to the music. Kids can also use them to retell and act out the story on their own! For more ideas on how to supplement your Nutcracker study at home with young kids, including ideas on how to watch the ballet at home, check out this article: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/nutcrackerresources Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    35. The Nutcracker Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2022 14:04


    For the next 2 weeks we are sharing a sneak peek into our popular Nutcracker course for kids ages 2-8. You are in for a treat, this music and story and interactive way that we share it with young kids is so much fun! Inside the course is an immersive experience with Tchaikovsky's iconic ballet. You and your kids will be experiencing the story and music of the Nutcracker through songs, games, active listening, instrument playing, and using your imagination right alongside Ms. Elizabeth and her daughter Charlotte. To join the membership and start making music with us today, go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month! Alternatively, you can purchase just the Nutcracker course on it's own at www.clapforclassics.com/store Grab a free printable of hand-drawn images of the characters from the Nutcracker. www.clapforclassics.com/episode35. We like to make simple popsicle stick puppets out of ours to play with while we listen to the music. Kids can also use them to retell and act out the story on their own! For more ideas on how to supplement your Nutcracker study at home with young kids check out this article: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/nutcrackerresources Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics. We love to feature our listeners on the podcast! Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    34. I Like Pie!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2022 10:31


    Grab an egg shaker for this episode, if you have one. (Anything that shakes will work!). Today we are sharing two songs to help us get in the Thanksgiving spirit. The first song is a twist on a familiar favorite: “If You're Happy And You Know It.” Customize this one with all the things that you're thankful for! “I like pie” is a Clap for Classics! Original written by Kathryn Lieppman. This catchy song will be in your head this season while you're making and eating pie! Watch a video of us singing “I Like Pie” on our blog, or on our youtube channel. For information about our All Access Membership for kids ages 2-6 go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Use the code “LION” for 50% off your first month. Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    33. Teapots and Tchaikovsky

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2022 15:15


    For this episode you might want to grab a teapot and a scarf or wind wand if you have one. Forte, Charlotte and Ms. Elizabeth share the familiar favorite: “I'm a little teapot” and talk about the musical concepts forte and piano. We also listen to a beautiful piano piece called “November” by Tchaikovsky. Use a scarf or a ribbon wand to move your body while you listen to this music. Can you imagine what inspired Tchaikovsky to write this piece? Watch a video of us teaching I'm a little teapot here on our blog, or on our youtube channel. To be the first to find out about our upcoming holiday promotion get on our waitlist here: www.clapforclassics.com/holiday For information about our All Access Membership for kids ages 2-6 go to www.clapforclassics.com/join Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    32. Let's have some pumpkin fun!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2022 10:43


    Forte and I share 3 pumpkin activities, perfect for this time of year. Grab a pumpkin if you have one to use as a drum, and let's get started! To be the first to find out about our upcoming holiday promotion get on our waitlist here: www.clapforclassics.com/holiday For information about our All Access Membership for kids ages 2-6 go to www.clapforclassics.com/join The first activity is a pumpkin version of “Ring Around the Rosie” where we find lots of different ways to go around our pumpkin. Ring around the pumpkin A pocket full of nuts Leaves, leaves, we all fall down (Then replace “ring” with “tiptoe” or “gallop” or “stomp” etc.) Second, we tap out some halloween rhythms on our pumpkin drums. Last, we share a musical version of the popular poem “5 Little Pumpkins”. Melody written by Clap for Classics! Co-founder Kathryn Lieppman. 5 little pumpkins sitting on the gate. The first one said, “Oh my it's getting late!” The second one said, “There's a chill in the air.” The third one said, “But we don't care.” The fourth one said, “I'm ready for some fun” The fifth one said, “Let's run and run and run!” Then “ooooo” went the wind “ooooo” And out went the light, shhhhhhh And the 5 little pumpkins rolled out of sight. To check out our fun song all about pumpkin pie- go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_QhpU5WFu8 To watch some of the activities in video form, check out a live pumpkin mini class Elizabeth and Charlotte taught a few years ago. Find it on our blog or on youtube: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/pumpkin https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlMqLruDOXg Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    31. In the Hall of the Mountain King

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2022 13:47


    Elizabeth and Forte share 2 related activities in this episode. They share the wonderful classical piece, “In the Hall of the Mountain King” by Edvard Grieg, as well as the Mountain King Game that was inspired by the music. Grab some rhythm sticks and a pillow and clear some space for this episode. You will be using your imagination and moving your body. We think you're going to love this exciting music and fun interactive game. It might just become a new favorite in your home. To watch the Mountain King Game in video format check out our blog or our youtube channel. The two activities we share come straight out of either our All Access Membership or our Four Seasons curriculum. For details on how to join us go to www.clapforclassics.com/join or www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons Don't forget to use the code “PODCAST” at checkout to get 50% off your first month. Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in this episode and that we use in all of our music courses!

    30. Twinkle Twinkle Little Ghost (Learning the difference between major and minor)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2022 13:50


    Grab a scarf if you have one and we'll learn about and practice hearing the difference between Major and Minor together. Elizabeth and Forte introduce the concept of major and minor by singing a few different songs in their original key, and then switching the song from major to minor or minor to major to highlight the difference. We also share clips from some familiar classical pieces and try to identify if the piece is in a major key or a minor key. Classical music for this podcast is licensed to us for our use by Classical.com We shared excerpts from the following classical pieces on today's podcast: Peter's Theme played the strings from “Peter and the Wolf,” by Prokofiev. The Wolf's Theme played by the horns from” Peter and the Wolf,” by Prokofiev. Vivaldi's Autumn, from the Four Seasons, 1st movement Vivaldi's Autumn, from the Four Seasons, 2nd movement Toccata and Fugue in D minor by Bach. To watch a follow-up to this major and minor lesson in video format check out our blog or our youtube channel. This activity comes straight out of our Autumn All Around course inside our All Access Membership. For details on how to join us there go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Don't forget to use the code “PODCAST” at checkout to get 50% off your first month. Ready for some more Halloween-themed music? spooky pipe organ music?? Here is a video of some spooky pipe organ music. For more fall-themed activities like this one, make sure to grab our free resource, "Fall-themed Classical Pieces to Listen to with Your Child" by going to www.clapforclassics.com/fallclassicalmusic Help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics

    29. "Oats, Peas, Beans, and Barley"

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2022 11:59


    You'll need rhythm sticks for this activity. Feel free to use blocks, wooden spoons, or of course just your clapping hands always work as well. Grab the free printable that accompanies this activity at www.clapforclassics.com/episode29. It is a PDF with the lyrics, suggested actions, and extension ideas to go along with this song. This activity prompts quite a few actions, if you'd like to see a video of this same activity, head over to the blog at www.clapforclassics.com/blog/oats or you can watch it on Youtube. (Be sure to subscribe to our channel while you're there so you don't miss a video!) This activity comes straight out of our “Fun on the Farm” course inside our All Access Membership. For details on how to join us there go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Don't forget to use the code “PODCAST” at checkout to get 50% off your first month. Do you have a little one who likes tractors? We've got the perfect song for you, also from our “Fun on the Farm” course. It is so catchy and fun, I bet you'll be singing the chorus everytime you see a tractor! Check out our tractor video at https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/tractor. Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics Classical music for this podcast is licensed to us for our use by Classical.com

    28. Vivaldi's "Autumn" Party

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2022 13:21


    For this activity you can grab some rhythm sticks, a scarf, and a pillow! We'll be enjoying Vivaldi's “Autumn” the whole first movement. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much fun you and your kids will have while engaging with this beautiful music. Get your hands on the free printable now at www.clapforclassics.com/episode28. It is a PDF with a listening map for this classical music activity. It's a great way to extend the learning with a visual representation of what is happening in the music. We are teaching musical form in this episode, and your child will experience the form through movement and then the listening map will help solidify the concept. Check out the blog post where we share this activity in video form. This activity comes from our “Autumn All Around” course that can be found both inside our Four Seasons Music and More Curriculum, as well as inside our All Access Membership. For another engaging musical activity to accompany Vivaldi's “Autumn” check out this video: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/autumn In this activity we enjoy the 3rd movement of the Autumn Concerto. Do you have kids hungry for more and more!! Extend the learning even further by watching this video that will give you some great information about who Vivaldi was and about his Four Seasons violin concertos. https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/vivaldi4seasons To get information about our Four Seasons Course go to www.clapforclassics.com/fourseasons To learn all about our All Access Membership go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. And don't forget that as a podcast listener you can get 50% off your first month of the membership by using the coupon code “PODCAST.” Please help more families find out about this podcast by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content! Leave Forte a joke and be featured on an upcoming podcast! www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics Classical music for this podcast is licensed to us for our use by Classical.com

    27. Beethoven's 5th: a Dragon Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2022 15:40


    Happy Classical Music Month! We are sharing one of our very favorite classical music activities with you, Beethoven's 5th: a Dragon Story. We made up our own story inspired by the beginning of Beethoven's 5th Symphony. Grab the free printable now at www.clapforclassics.com/episode27. It is a PDF with images that accompany the story we will be telling through the music. We like to turn the images into simple popsicle stick puppets or a flannel board story. Check out the blog post where we show you our flannel board and a short video clip of this activity: www.clapforclassics.com/dragonstory Join our membership to get access to this activity and a library full of musical play activities like this one. All the details are at www.clapforclassics.com/join Leave Forte a joke and be featured on one of our upcoming podcasts: Enjoying the podcast? Please consider helping us reach more families by leaving us a review, telling your friends, or sharing our social media content!

    26. This Little Light of Mine

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2022 8:00


    Today's podcast features my friend Adeline, and a wonderful song: “This Little Light of Mine”. This little light of mine (tap knees), I'm gonna let it shine, (arms: up down up down) This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. (dance in a circle) This iconic American gospel song has been energizing and uniting diverse groups of people for nearly a century. It's impossible to sing this song without moving your body and feeling a spark of excitement and purpose. It is a great song to sing with kids because the words are so repetitive, and the message is so positive! We've added some simple actions to each verse, and suggested a flashlight activity for the second time through -- kids and flashlights always seem to be drawn to each other, right? Want to see a video version of this activity where I sing and dance with 3 young musicians to this song? Find it on the Clap for Classics blog here: https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/thislittlelight, along with more great information about this song and ideas for how to extend the learning with your child. Don't miss these incredible renditions of this song by these famous black artists. Aretha Franklin, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Fannie Lou Hamer. This activity is found inside our membership, in the super-fun “American Classics” music course. Want to know more about the membership? Details here: www.clapforclassics.com/join. To leave Forte and I a message or a joke please record it here: http://www.speakpipe.com/clapforclassics If you enjoy our podcast please consider leaving us a review, telling a friend about the podcast or sharing about it on social media. This helps us grow and reach more music-loving families!

    25. Hi Ho the Rattlin' Bog

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2022 7:34


    Today's podcast is a fast, fun song from the wetlands of Ireland! Grab an egg shaker and get ready to learn “Hi Ho the Rattlin' Bog” with me and my young friend Calvin. Grab the free printable that accompanies this episode at www.clapforclassics.com/episode25. It is a PDF with extra lyrics, ukulele chords and extension ideas to continue the learning and fun with this song. Chorus: Hi ho the rattlin' bog The bog down in the valley-oh Hi ho the rattlin' bog The bog down in the valley-oh Now in this bog there was a tree A rare tree, a rattlin' tree The tree in the bog, and the bog down in the valley-oh Chorus Now on this tree there was a branch A rare branch, a rattlin' branch The branch on the tree, And the tree in the bog, and the bog down in the valley-oh Chorus Now on this branch there was a nest A rare nest, a rattlin' nest The nest on the branch, and the branch on the tree, And the tree in the bog, and the bog down in the valley-oh Chorus Now in this nest there was an egg A rare egg, a rattlin' egg An egg in the nest, and the nest on the branch And the branch on the tree, And the tree in the bog, and the bog down in the valley-oh Chorus Now on this egg there was a bird A rare bird, a rattlin' bird A bird on the egg, and the egg in the nest And the nest on the branch, and the branch on the tree, And the tree in the bog, and the bog down in the valley-o! This cumulative song is such fun to sing, and great for strengthening our memory. Here are some possible extension ideas: Add movement by acting out the parts of the song as you sing: strand straight for the tree, stick out arm for the branch, cup hands for the nest, flapping arms for the bird. Add a visual: For preschoolers: As you slowly sing or review this song, have your child draw a picture of what the song is about, helping her as needed. For any age: use felt to cut out a tree, a branch, a nest, an egg, and a bird -- then assemble the parts on a flannel/felt board while you sing, pointing to each part when it comes back again and adding the new piece with each verse. Let your little one help you! This activity comes straight from one of the most popular courses in our All Access Membership, “A Musical Trip Around the World.” Join us in our All Access Membership for more active, engaging musical activities for you and your little one. Details are at www.clapforclassics.com/join. Want to see a video version of this song? Find it on the blog at www.clapforclassics.com/blog/bog Please consider leaving us a review if you enjoy this podcast, it helps us grow and reach more kids and parents!

    24. Row Row Row Your Boat

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2022 5:07


    Today's podcast is short, sweet, and familiar! My friend Evelyn and I share Row Row Row Your Boat with some fun and silliness! Hopefully this sparks your creativity to write some more silly verses. We use our imaginations to pretend we're in a boat, or sit facing a partner holding hands and rocking back and forth as if in a boat. Row row row your boat Gently down the stream Merrily merrily merrily merrily Life is but a dream Row row row your boat Gently to the shop And if you see a kangaroo Don't forget to hop Row row row your boat Gently to the swamp And if you meet an elephant, Don't forget to stomp. Row row row your boat Gently down the stream And if you see a hungry shark, Don't forget to scream. This activity and many others come straight out of our Summer music course which is inside our membership but also found in our "Four Seasons Music and More Curriculum." Click here to read more about what is included inside the summer course and to see if the Four Seasons Curriculum is right for your family. How to adapt and extend the activity found in this episode: Make up new verses with your child. Ask them which animal they would like to meet, what the animal does (ie: stomp, hop, etc) and then come up with a location word that rhymes with the animal's action. Imaginative play: take an imaginary trip on a rowboat with your child. As you meet the various characters in the song, imagine what you/they might say, and what types of adventures you may have together. Create more variations incorporating musical concepts: Example: Row, row, row your boat softly down the stream (piano!), then loudly down the stream (forte!). Row smoothly or bouncily down the stream (legato/staccato), slowly or quickly (adagio/allegro). Ukulele: learn how to play the C chord, and sing this song while strumming the C chord If you have a few older singers in your family, try singing this song as a round with 2 or 3 groups. One person or group starts the song and continues while the next group starts singing, one phrase later. What your child is learning: Cooperation Gross motor skills Body awareness Steady beat Phonemic awareness (rhyming and repetition) Music credit: Row, Row Row Your Boat: Traditional American nursery rhyme, credited to Eliphalet Oram Lyte

    23. A Musical Boat Ride With Handel

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2022 10:33


    Today we'll be listening to and learning about a famous piece of music by George Frideric Handel, part of his iconic "Water Music". Grab some rhythm sticks and the free printable if you'd like to extend the activity for a little more interaction. To grab the free printable that accompanies this episode go to www.clapforclassics.com/episode23. It's a set of images of the string family and the brass family so you have a visual of the instruments while you listen. To watch a video of this activity (the one that comes straight out of our All Access Membership), go to https://www.clapforclassics.com/blog/watermusic. There you'll also find a blog post with more information on the piece and even more ways to extend and enjoy this wonderful music. Enjoying the podcast? Consider joining us inside our All Access Membership to make learning music fun, engaging and rewarding for you and your young child. Music Credit: “Water Music” Suite No. 2 in D Major by George Frideric Handel 2. “Alla Hornpipe” Performed by the Orchestre Symphonique de Radio-Télé-Luxembourg, conducted by Louis de Froment Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing this music for our use on the podcast and in our membership.

    22. Gershwin's Rhapsody in Burger and Fries

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2022 10:58


    Join Ms. Elizabeth, Wilder, and Riff the Pig as we share a wonderful piece of music from american composer George Gershwin. Grab some rhythm sticks and our free printable to extend this activity. The printable includes images of the instruments that we'll identify as we listen to this piece. Print them on cardstock and mount on popsicle sticks for puppets, or print two sets and use them to play memory with while you listen! Grab it at www.clapforclassics.com/episode22 This activity comes right out of our American Classics course that can be found inside our All Access Membership. We teach the theme to Rhapsody in Blue with a silly phrase, and we don't think you'll ever hear this piece again without thinking these words! Fries……… Ketchup and mustard And don't forget cheese On my hamburger dinner today! Want to extend the fun and learning even more? Join our All Access Membership for a library of activities just like the one in this podcast. Watch the animation from Fantasia 2000, accompanied by Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. Listen to the entire piece of music during bathtime, or mealtime. Continue listening for the “ketchup and mustard” theme, and listening for the clarinet, trumpet, and piano. Play a game of musical memory with the free printable from this episode. Just print out two pages of the cards. Learn more about our American Classics course found inside our All Access Membership. What your child is learning: Active engagement with a piece of classical music Active listening for a repeated theme Instrument identification: clarinet, trumpet, piano Music credit: Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the music on this podcast. “Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin, performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with Christopher O'Riley on piano and Barry Wordsworth conducting

    21. Tortuga Concha: call and response song

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2022 9:26


    Learn this fun call and response song from El Salvador! Ms. Elizabeth and Abbey will teach a few words in spanish and then introduce a fun way to sing this song Tortuga Concha, it's time to sing No tengo manos, no tengo pies Tortuga Concha, it's time to read No tengo manos, no tengo pies Tortuga Concha, it's time to dance No tengo manos, no tengo pies Tortuga Concha, it's time to write No tengo manos, no tengo pies Tortuga Concha, it's time to clean No tengo manos, no tengo pies Oh baby turtle, it's time to eat Si tengo manos, Si tengo pies Join us in our All Access Membership for more active, engaging musical activities for you and your little one. Details are at www.clapforclassics.com/join Here are a few ways to extend the fun of this song: Craft idea: Make a turtle puppet: here is a paper hand puppet idea, and here is a cute glove puppet. Put the puppet on, and tuck your fingers under the “shell” to hide the hands and feet, until the end when the turtle says “Si tengo manos, si tengo pies.” Check out this awesome art activity based on one of El Salvador's most famous artists, Fernando Llort. What your child is learning: Call and repeat Spanish vocabulary: manos (hands), pies (feet) Fine motor skills (finger and toe dexterity) Gross motor skills Keeping a steady beat Classical music licensed to us by Classical.com

    20. Familiar Favorite With a Twist

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2022 14:51


    If you have rhythm sticks you might want to grab them for this episode. In today's episode we demonstrate a bunch of fun ways to put a twist on any simple song that you sing with your child. We hope this will give you some fresh new ideas on how to spice up the songs you're asked to sing on repeat and make more of your musical play at home. We take 4 simple, familiar songs and share fun ways to change them up. Grab our free printable list of our favorite children's songs to help get you started at: www.clapforclassics.com/episode20 Watch a free video of me teaching these activities here: www.clapforclassics.com/blog/familiarfavorites For information on our Clap for Classics! All Access Membership where you can get access to a library of music activities like the ones on this podcast go to www.clapforclassics.com/join. Here are some ways to add variation to your favorite songs: 1. Change the way you experience the beat. Most kids' songs have a very steady beat, and young children can never get enough practice feeling and keeping that steady beat. Clap the beat, step or march or dance to the beat, tap different parts of your body, play a simple rhythm instrument, or try a hand-clapping partner activity. 2.Change the actions. Many children's songs have actions built into them. Elizabeth took the “Grand Old Duke of York” and changed the word “march” to “spin” and then to “hop”, for a fun and active twist. We've done “Tiptoe/Stomp/Run around the rosie, pocket full of posie…”. You could even get your itsy bitsy spider to run, dance, or fly up that water spout. Again, let your kids choose the action! 3.Change up the style of the song. This activity builds in music vocabulary and the opportunity for your kiddo to make choices about how you sing. Shall we sing it with our treble (high) voices or our bass (low) voices? Shall we sing it presto (super fast) or adagio (slow)? Shall we sing it legato (smoothly) or staccato (bouncy and detached)? Shall we sing it forte (loud) or piano (soft)? These types of changes are SO easy, and kids find them to be so silly and fun. I love using this idea when we're in the car and need some entertainment. Another bonus about getting your kids familiar with this vocabulary set, is that these musical terms can be fun to incorporate into daily life (IE: instead of “quiet down now!” you can say “use your piano voices!”) 4. Change the words. Find any opportunity you can to personalize a song just for your child. Can you include their name in a song? Can you include their favorite animal or favorite food? (“This little piggy ate chocolate chips” is a popular adaptation at my house) We hope this episode and these activities give you lots of ideas on how to bring more musical play into your home with your little ones! Special thanks to Classical.com for licensing the classical music that we used in today's episode. Hope you have some fun with these ideas!

    Claim Clap for Classics!

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel