Holiday breaks are important for everyone. It provides opportunity for rest and relaxation in order to improve mental, physical and emotional health for both educational staff and students. Overstimulation happens for both the staff and students. Taking the reset is beneficial for many ways. However, it can be overwhelming to jump back in with both feet at full speed. Here are some easy elementary music activities to implement after the break and help with a smooth transition!
Music Journals
This is a common go-to. Students are hyped up to reconnect with friends and just socialize. At my school, our winter concerts were the week before break. Essentially, we had our concert, they did their class parties, and then it was Saturday! It didn’t leave much time for reflection or decompression. Their first music class back, we watch a bit of our concert and then discuss it. Another option would be to watch a recording- it’s always fun for students to see themselves on camera! After we had ample time, they are given a music journal or a performer/performance review. Younger students draw a picture of their favorite part of the concert and older students write sentences.
In saying this, the concerts were a long time ago. It may be difficult for some students to think that far. Have them think about their winter break and some of the things that they did (eg. heard music in a restaurant, on an airplane, in a video game, at the mall, etc) and reflect on that.
This student dr3ew a picture of her Christmas present- a character from her favorite Russian TV show that sings when it’s feet are squeezed.
Alternatively, there are some students that just can’t think that far. Play some music while others are working and have them draw the instruments they hear, what they think the song is about or how it makes them feel. Find a Journal Reflection Package here.
Use Favorite or Familiar Activities
It is important to reestablish relationships, routines, and expectations. Using activities that they are familiar with will help all of these aspects. Some of the best activities would be “filler” games. Just having fun is the best way to getting back into the swing of things. Games such as Bluebird, Doggy Doggy, or Freeze Dance will remind students of the curricular content they have learned. It also takes the pressure off of you!
Quiet Activities for Centers
It’s okay to do centers on the first day back! The goal is to have them be comfortable in the room, with each other, and not be overwhelmed with brand new content right away. Use some quiet activities for centers (or on their own!) Some ideas are:
- Reading (with someone or on their own)
- Listening (with headphones)
- Coloring (here’s some color-by-notes!)
- Games (instrument card game)
- Tech (composition games such as Incredibox, Sketch-a-Song or Tunetrain)
Other Ideas
There are lots of different ways to transition back. If you still need a few extra days to wrap your mind around the curriculum, here are some ideas for self-guided activities.
- Print and Go Scavenger Hunt!
- Digital Read Alouds
- Music Room Runs or Play Alongs
- Consult this list of music-themed videos!
Ultimately, you know your students best and what they can handle. I hope that this list of easy elementary music activities gives you some ideas and resources to help you and your students with a smooth transition. Happy New Year!