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Ever had the internet—or even the power—go out while you’re teaching? That’s why it’s so important to have a few tech-free games and activities ready for those unpredictable moments!
This week, I’m highlighting activities from the document Rhythm Practice – Focus Activities. Created many years ago by Denise Gagné, this resource is packed with games and activities I still use regularly in my classroom. Scroll down to explore some of the rhythm activities from this document!
Bonus tip: Did you know MusicplayOnline has printable rhythm flashcards? In the Rhythm Practice section, simply select the rhythms you’re focusing on. Then, under Extra Resources, you’ll find both 4-beat and 8-beat Rhythm Flashcard options—perfect for easy, no-tech lessons.
Display four cards and have the children say them in order. Ask them to put the rhythm of one card “inside their head”. Then turn that card over. Have the children say all four rhythms again, including the one that is turned over (they do that one from memory). Continue turning cards over one at a time until the children have all 4 cards memorized. This is an excellent way to extend memory skills!
Choose four or eight cards. Divide the class into 2 groups. Have group one begin first. After one or two cards, have the second group begin. Try beginning the canon at different entry points. After one, two, three or four cards. A variation of this would be to divide the class into two groups. Have one group read the flashcards as you show them. The other group would echo what the readers clap.
Display four flashcards in the wrong order. Sing or play them in the correct order and invite kids to “Come on Down” and put them in the correct order. If they get them right ring a bell.
These color-coded flashcards make it easy for teachers to quickly identify levels and choose the perfect challenge for each student. Use them to introduce new rhythms and melodies, reinforce key concepts, or play engaging games that bring rhythm practice to life.
Printed two per page on sturdy cardstock, they’re simple to cut apart and durable enough to use right away — with even longer-lasting results when laminated.
with Music Room Reads
Wednesday, March 11th, 2026 @ 4:30-5:30 MST (60 Minutes)
A recorded version will be available if you are unable to watch live.
This session will share practical strategies and ready-to-use activities that meaningfully incorporate picture books into the music room. Discover how music and storytelling can lift all voices with engaging lessons you can implement right away for rhythm work, vocal exploration, movement, and classroom instrument activities.
Learning Objectives:
• Implement ready-to-use lesson ideas that integrate music and storytelling into rhythm work, vocal exploration, movement, and classroom instrument activities.
• Adapt picture-book–based lessons to meet the needs of diverse learners and different grade levels within the music room.
• Use storytelling intentionally to promote student voice, cultural representation, and meaningful musical expression.
• Design or modify music activities inspired by picture books to support
We wanted to take the opportunity to share some updates from the team: