Q: What if I find it difficult to keep time, or find the “pulse” of the music? What if "I have no sense of rhythm"?

(answer by Tom & Barbara)

A: It is not essential to have a strong sense of rhythm to teach this material, and if you are comfortable with being open it is fine to let the children see this. Showing kids that it is ok to make mistakes is a very powerful and positive message to send - especially about music - as many people grow up feeling that music is only something very gifted people can or should do. We don't feel that way about walking, running, or talking. It can be really fun trying things and learning together.

Everybody feels unconfident about music from time to time - even professional musicians! Most often people who have trouble with hearing rhythm and pitch can hear these things when they are relaxed and are not afraid of making a fool of themselves. Their abilities also develop quickly when they have a chance to listen out for rhythm and pitch in a safe setting, and practice these listening skills.

You will invariably have some children in the class who have a stronger sense of rhythm than others and you can let them demonstrate activities or do things if you feel shaky. All activities have supporting materials on the CD which can help you and mean the success of the activity doesn't rely on your sense of rhythm. Putting on one of the backing grooves will help everyone feel more supported and you will find activities more successful and more relaxed.

Remember the ideas of the 5 ways that children relate to rhythm. Use lots of visual support - for them and you.

Encourage the children to let their bodies respond to the music. They will do this automatically, and can help you and others in the class to move and respond to the music. Use all the senses we have, eyes, to watch, ears, to listen, and don’t forget we can copy one another.

We hope you can enjoy learning with the children and worry less about "getting things wrong".