Submitted by Sue Michiels, California

Idea posted November 8, 2005

My opening theme music this year is either "We're Making Music" from Music K-8, Vol. 16, No. 1 or "Listen To The Beat Of My Heart" from Music K-8, Vol. 6, No. 3, depending on the age group with which I am working.

I put a finger on my mouth (symbolizing "Shhh!") then move both fingers to my eyes (symbolizing "Eyes On Me"). The kids come in doing whatever else I am doing, whether it is linking hands with a partner, clapping to the beat, or making a joined line to make a circle, etc. I slap my hips to indicate stop, point two fingers at a pair to sit down, then the next pair, etc. I haven't said a word. Frequently there may be instruments to play, but if someone plays them before I indicate, the instrument (without a word) is taken away. If the occasional child sits down when they haven't been told to do so, I indicate with my hands for them to stand up and then carry on with the others until they are last to sit. I haven't said a word, and it is so easy!

There is not a group, including special ed. kids, with which this doesn't work.