Rhythm and Pulse Year 2 Notations - Diddle diddle dumpling

During a Year 2 music lesson, children are introduced to the rhythm and pulse through a fun and interactive chant titled "Diddle Diddle Dumpling." The activity starts by familiarising the children with the chant, ensuring they are confident in reciting it. Once they have mastered the words, the children are instructed to sit down, mimicking a crossed-leg position with one knee raised. The essence of the game is to gradually replace words in the chant with specific actions, enhancing their memory and coordination skills.

The game progresses in stages: first, the word 'shoe' is omitted and substituted with a foot tap. Next, 'trousers' is also removed, with children clapping their hands twice as a replacement. The phrase 'My son John' is then excluded, and children express this part of the chant by tapping their head, shoulders, and knees in sequence. Finally, 'Diddle diddle dumpling' is taken out, with the children tapping their right knee for 'diddle diddle' and their left knee for 'dumpling'. The challenge culminates in performing the entire song with all the actions and the remaining words. This engaging activity not only teaches rhythm and coordination but also allows children to showcase their abilities individually.