Instrumental Activity Book - Diddle Diddle Dumpling

The "Diddle Diddle Dumpling" activity book offers a delightful and engaging way to teach children rhythm and coordination through a well-known chant. The book provides a step-by-step guide to a non-instrumental game where children first learn to confidently recite the chant. They then perform the chant while seated, with one knee up, and gradually replace certain words with specific actions. For instance, the word 'shoe' is replaced with a foot tap, 'trousers' with a hand clap, and 'My son John' with taps on the head, shoulders, and knees. As the game progresses, more words are omitted and replaced by actions, challenging the children's memory and coordination. The fun culminates in performing the entire song with minimal words and a series of actions, allowing each child to showcase their skills individually.

In the instrumental version of the game, children replace words with sounds from various musical instruments, such as claves for 'shoe', a tambourine for 'trousers', an agogo for 'My son John', and a shaker for 'Diddle diddle dumpling'. This adaptation not only reinforces the children's understanding of the chant but also introduces them to different musical instruments and sounds. After practicing in groups, children have the opportunity to perform in smaller ensembles, further enhancing their ability to work as a team and their sense of rhythm. This activity is designed to be both educational and entertaining, fostering a love for music and rhythm in young learners.