- Eleanor Meynell
- Aug 24, 2024
- 1 min read
Updated: Aug 26, 2024
Mix the type of songsÂ
Hymns are good, (Stand Up for Jesus, Amazing Grace), children's action songs (Looby Loo, Heads, shoulders, knees and toes), rounds (Row your boat, London’s burning), folksongs from the UK, or the country of the resident (Blow the wind southerly), songs from the musicals (I could have danced all night), pop songs by popular singers (Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Beatles, Nat King Cole etc), pub songs (Roll out the barrel), local songs from the area (in South East London, Lambeth Walk). Any songs that are well known by the majority of people in the room will create a positive and lively atmosphere.Â
Get active!Â
You can increase enjoyment further by encouraging those who are able to stand up to march or dance with one or two songs, clap or join in with actions.Â
Use instruments
If your budget allows, handing out some lightweight tambourines and maracas are always enjoyed. Please use percussion instruments sensitively and always approach from the front so you don’t surprise or frighten. Get down to eye-level by kneeling or crouching down, and lower your percussion to the same level as theirs. If someone shows signs of aggression or discomfort, show respect and move away - you can always try again later.Â
Interact!
Use lots of touch and eye contact so every individual in the room knows you are doing something special and fun together and encourage as much interaction between people in the room as possible by dancing in pairs and holding hands while singing.Â
