Rhythm and Pulse Reception Notations - Penguin home for tea

"Penguin Home for Tea" is a charming and interactive song designed for young learners in a Reception class. The song is set to a rhythmic melody, notated in 4/4 time, with a sequence of quavers and crotchets that encourage children to engage with both the rhythm and the pulse of the music. The lyrics whimsically invite children to imagine having a penguin over for tea and to see themselves as penguins, with phrases like "Have you ever had a penguin home for tea?" and "Take a look at me, a penguin you will see."

The song is paired with an accumulative action game that enhances children's enjoyment and learning. As the leader sings, they stand before the group, instructing the children—referred to as 'penguins'—on various movements to perform. These actions include moving the right arm, left arm, right leg, left leg, and head. With each new verse, the children add a new movement to the ones they've already learned, culminating in a full-body dance that synchronises both arms, both legs, and the head with the song. The game concludes with a fun directive: "Penguins attention! Penguins, sit down!" This activity not only teaches musical concepts but also supports coordination and memory through playful imitation and repetition.