What you need:
at least 9 non-slip durable mats; koki pens to write numbers 1-9
option: glue 2 mats together to make them firmer; one side is all the same color, the reverse side can be different colors.
option: draw shark fins on the reverse side (they gobble you up if you step on them, adding to the drama of the game!) Facilitating the game:
# lay the number mats out in 3 rows of 3, numbers facing down, as per photos above
# begin singing it's a fox- a fox - a foxy feet so the children practice stepping their feet in time to the chant. This requires agility and motor planning before they even step on the number mats.
# turn over 4 or 5 mats in order, adding your own dramatic touch, saying the numbers in sequence as you point at them; depending on age, start with simplest sequence eg 1 2 3 4 5
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| you may want to only use 4 numbers |
# always start simple, progressing to mixed number sequences
# invite the children to line up, then start singing the first line of the chant "foxy feet will find the beat with a 1 2 3 4 5" You can either point at these numbers while singing, and then demonstrate by stepping on the numbered mats in time with the rhyme. Show the children how they can step any way they want between the mats: they may need to twist or turn around, or put 2 feet on one mat. Arrange the numbers initially so they are easy to process; always progress from simplest to more complex. This is the best way to learn and master a new activity.
simple demo of song from intro - middle- ending
Intro: it's a fox- a fox- a foxy- feet ( repeat as necessary until ready to go)
Chords E7 A7 E7 A7
Foxy feet
will find the beat
E7 A7 E7 A7
with a 7 5 3
2 4
Keep the beat with your foxy feet
with a 7 5 3
2 4
It’s a
fox- a fox - a
foxy feet
with a 7 5 3 2 4
We make a
dance and we keep the beat
with a 7 5 3 2 4 etc
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| lay mats out in random patterns |
OR lay the mats out randomly instead of in the block,
to make more interesting dance moves.
# end the game by singing the intro again, but this time slow it down gradually (called ritardando in music) and become gradually softer until you just STOP! This is the practice of musical dynamics.
Benefits and spin-offs:
Apart from it being a feel-good, fun, inclusive game, it also contributes to healthy development and learning in children in the following ways:
uses musical elements to foster whole body co-ordination and integration
body memory, sequential memory skills, midline crossing
balance, agility and dexterity
uses rhythm to foster motor planning, praxia and body mapping
listening, reading + memory skills
spatial-perceptual skills
learning by practice and repetition
creativity as they get to 'make up a dance'
The simple musical elements of rhythmic patterns and repetitive chanting help the development of learning skills while having fun. Foxy Feet helps children to be grounded, to think on their feet, to find their feet, to put their best foot first!
