Young children (and preschoolers in particular) love clapping rhythms!  We use rhythm blocks, rhythm cards, and even a metronome (just because they get such a big kick of it).  We start by simply introducing what each value sounds like, with basic words.  Once they can easily identify the symbols and clap a few bars, we focus our attention to feeling the beat getting into a groove.

Once rhythm is becoming fairly consistent, we try it out on the piano.  We find middle C (or any C they like) and play a simple rhythm of 2 bars.  Do a few repetitions, switching hands and using different areas of the keyboard, until you can sense when they have had enough.  For the very young ones, this is usually enough piano time for one lesson, and we head back to the carpet.

I always start by making sure they can identify the individual note values consistently.  Then we create a couple of bars of 4/4 time or 2/4 time and start clapping with a sense of pulse.  Then I let them “mix up the notes” and create their own rhythms.  It gives them a sense of control, and they have a lot of fun trying to “trick the teacher”.

What do you use for rhythm games at this very young age?