Monkey Beats

  • Sound and movement patterns (e.g. clapping and tapping) can be highly regulating.  Use the speed of the beat to ‘alert’ or ‘calm’ children.
  • Tapping, clapping and body percussion  provide proprioceptive input into the muscles and joints, which can also assist with emotional regulation.
HANDOUT
PRACTISE JOURNAL
TECHNIQUE VIDEO

Uses

  • Try using this as a quick emotional regulation activity after lunch breaks

Instructions

Tap Tap Clap:

  1. Stand or sit with your feet apart
  2. Gently tap you knees twice then clap your hands together
  3. Keep in time with the beat

Knee Taps:

  1. Tap your left hand on your left knee, then your right hand on your right knee.
  2. Try speed up your knee taps and then slow down.

Pat on the Back:

  1. Stand or sit up tall
  2. Cross one hand over to the opposite shoulder
  3. Give yourself a pat on the back
  4. Switch hands
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Watch Points

  • Shoulders relaxed throughout
  • Tapping in time with the beat
  • Seated– Do Monkey Beats in your chair