My students LOVE this circle time chant. I came up with it after our previous circle time counting activity no longer grabbed their attention. It gets them moving right before I read a story so they are more focused and it’s a fun way to mix big body movements and math.
My circle time is short, we sing a welcome song that includes saying hello to each child by name, then do this circle time chant, read a short book and usually do a short activity. On days when they are very wiggly while reading I will skip the activity or put it off until later. It’s more important for them to be successful at circle then it is for me to do everything I had planned. That said this chant helps the kids to get wiggles out and focus on our read aloud.
Download it here
How to use the circle time chant:
- Have students stand.
- Sing the chant and follow the movements in the song. When it says “Let’s count it out!” Point to each child clearly as you count.
- Feel free to use other movements like “Let’s stamp it out, let’s shake it out, let’s jump it out!” Whatever works for you and your classroom. When you do the movement count as you do it.
- When you chant ” There are ___ friends on their feet.” Use the number that you counted.
Oh heck here I made a quick video, I have no makeup on and am in my PJs but the only time it’s quiet around here is late at night, I am sure you can all relate!
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Sue says
This will be great and just the ticket for counting after we finish counting the days of school once we reach 100! Thanks!
Jen says
That’s really cute. I will use it tomorrow. Thanks for recording it…it makes sense now.
Allison McDonald says
Did you do it? Was it a hit?
Debra Holloway says
Look forward to trying it.
Lindsay says
Love it, thanks! I am curious about your welcome song. Do you have a post on it already?
Allison McDonald says
I don’t but I will try to put together a printable and video soon!
Corrie says
Love the song! I’ve written it down and added it to my collection. Thank you! 🙂
Shary says
Do you have other transitional songs, i.e. For clean up time, bedtime, lunch time, heading out the door?
Allison McDonald says
I am out of practice with these but I am searching for them and will share when I find some!
Stacey says
I like the chant, will try it out tomorrow. I’m really looking for transitional songs and chants.
Gabí says
Really cool, can imagine it singing also as an ending for some classes, to practice counting. how many letters, pumpkins, vehicles, vegetables, animals, etc etc. Loved it! Thank you so much for sharing such rhythm!