No.219
Clap Echo
Japanese name: まねっこ拍手
Materials
- None
How to play
- Sit where everyone can see the demonstrator's hands. The leader gives one short clapping pattern of about 2–4 beats.
- After it finishes, everyone echoes the same tempo and sequence. Keep listening and responding turns separate, without clapping over the demonstration.
- Try a short pattern with a rest, such as “clap, clap, rest, clap.” If coordination slips, repeat the same pattern more slowly.
- Once comfortable, volunteers take turns leading while others follow. Gentle knee pats or silent hand opening and closing may replace claps.
- Finish after all leaders have had a turn or after five minutes. Choose one pattern to perform together and end with applause.
Ways to adapt
Preschool children: two beats. Younger primary school children: four. Older primary school children: eight.