Pumpkins, counting, and a big “SPLAT!” October brings so many opportunities to get our youngest musicians singing and moving. Here are five of my favorite fingerplays and counting songs, along with ways I use them in my elementary music classes.
#5: Five Perfect Pumpkins by Stephanie Leavell
I just discovered this song this year, and my students love it—especially the word “SPLAT!” You can keep it simple with a fingerplay or bring out the scarves for more movement.
Try it as a fingerplay:
Hold up five fingers to show the pumpkins.
Roll your hands as one pumpkin rolls away.
On “SPLAT!” clap or tap an open palm against your fist.
Continue with four fingers, counting down as you sing.
Try it with scarves:
Make a rolling motion with the scarf during the first line.
Throw the scarf down on “SPLAT!”
Pick it up and toss it into the air on “Oh no!”
Catch it and get ready to repeat with the next number.
That little moment of anticipation before “SPLAT!” has become a favorite in my classroom!
Find the song, lyrics, and chords on Stephanie Leavell’s Music for Kiddos website.