A simple folk song incorporating beat-keeping, partner skills and inhibitory control.
FOCUS AREAS: [proprioception] [crossing the midline] [coordination] [active listening] [low energy]
Source: A traditional West African folk song, most specifically associated with Liberia
One song, many ways:
- This song is in binary form (A/B) - there are two parts to the song therefore two different opportunities to create two different clapping rhythms. What other clapping patterns can you create?
- Large group activity: Every child sitting in a circle will have one stone or small bean bag sitting in front of them. You can pick up the stone/beanbag for one beat, then pass it along to the next person on the next beat, and so on. With repetition and practice, this will create a stone/beanbag moving experience to the strong beat of the song!
- Using lycra or the stretchy cord: Create two different movements to move in synchronicity to the two parts of the song. Eg shake the lycra to the beat for the first part, then pull and release the lycra for the second part.
- Toddlers: Use simple movements to be adapted to younger children. Eg. "Kokoleo" they can wave their arms, "Aba mama" stomp their feet.
Lyrics:
Kokoleoko mama
Kokoleoko
Kokoleoko mama
Koleoko!
Aba mama,
Aba
Aba mama,
Koleoko
