Singing Games Activity Book - Down by the Banks of the Hanky Panky

The "Singing Games Activity Book" presents a delightful musical game for children titled "Down by the Banks of the Hanky Panky". This interactive activity combines singing with rhythmic tapping, offering a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about keeping time in music. To start, children are taught to pass a tap around a circle, a motion that requires them to hold their hands out with palms up and use their right hand to tap the hand on their left. The key here is to maintain a steady pulse, which can be practiced by counting in time with the taps. This foundational skill is crucial for the rhythm of the game.

Once the children have mastered passing the tap, they learn the accompanying song, which includes playful lyrics about bullfrogs jumping along the banks of the Hanky Panky. Singing while clapping to the pulse helps cement the rhythm in their minds. It's important for them to remember to pause after the words 'OOPS' and 'ARPS' during the game. As the game progresses, a tap is passed around the circle in time with the music, and pauses are observed after specific cues. The excitement builds as children try to avoid being tapped out on the word 'PLOP'. The game continues until there is a final winner, combining skill and chance, with eliminated players still involved by clapping along to maintain the beat. This singing game is not only entertaining but also educational, teaching children about rhythm and timing in a playful setting.