Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE having 3 kiddos of varying ages and maturity levels, but, at times, the age discrepancy gets the best of us. The toddler either destroys a perfectly fun game of Uno or the brother terrorizes his sisters’ tea party or the big sis just quite frankly wants to be left alone! Or worse…I get complacent and assume the older ones can watch the toddler for “just a second” while I do the dishes or work on the computer or vacuum. I’ve discovered the secret to Sibling Happiness. Are you ready for this? Rub your listening ears—FIND AN ACTIVITY THAT THEY CAN DO TOGETHER! The activity can’t involve a finished product because it’s a fact that someone will get irritated when another someone screws it up…
We’ve found our sense of inner joy with the Bilibo —this rather simple piece of plastic can provide minutes (not hours—get real, people!) of giggles and it’s something they all can do at their own level! You can spin on ‘em, turn ‘em over and walk on ‘em, spin balls in ‘em, wear ‘em as hats and put on a show, etc., etc. The best part of all—there are no rules, no batteries, and no extra noise!
Now, once that fun is over, try out a classic Kindermusik activity that is just as full-proof. "All Fall Down" is a must-have in your bag of Mommy Tricks. You'll need ribbon sticks/streamers/scarves and the song, of course!
The music has 3 cues, and each cue requires a specific reaction from the players (these are the rules):
To start, everyone lies on the floor.
When you hear the crank, you get up.
When you hear the music, you dance with your streamers.
When you hear the descending scale, you fall down.
Repeat until the music is over.
(Repeat again and again until everyone is worn out!)
WHY this game?
--because it’s fun.
--because anyone can do it.
--because it involves movement, and we all know that kids learn through movement, right?
--because it teaches self-control, deliberate listening, and patience in a FUN way.
Are you inspired yet? If so, you can download “All Fall Down” here. and be prepared for some giggles!
Now go and have some fun with your kids! And, that, my friends...is something to sing about!
--Posted by Miss Kathy, who can hold her own in a Bilibo-spinning competition!
