Older kids play intricate clapping games along with songs, but even young toddlers are able to participate in simple activities that involve clapping. The hand-clapping games and activities work well in group situations like day care or at home with a parent and child. Younger toddlers may need help with clapping, while older toddlers catch on quickly and clap on their own.
Benefits
Most babies learn to clap their hands between 9 months and 1 year old, according to "Parenting" magazine. By the toddler years, most children are able to clap. The clapping games and activities help toddlers further develop control of their muscles and hand-eye coordination. The games also help young children learn about rhythm and control of their bodies. The activities often integrate singing or a combination of actions for further development of body control and coordination.
Patterns
Clapping out rhythm patterns helps toddlers improve their coordination and listening skills. Hold a small drum or clap out a simple pattern with your hands. The kids follow the pattern. Start over, adding a few more claps. Continue adding more to the clapping pattern. Turn over the drum to one of the toddlers so he is able to drum out a clapping pattern for the other kids.
Songs
Many songs appropriate for the toddler age group involve clapping. Three common songs are "If You're Happy and You Know It," "Bingo" and "Patty Cake." The "Hokey Pokey" is a game that involves clapping during the main verse of the song. The familiarity of these songs makes it easier for toddlers to clap along in the appropriate places. Another option is to make up your own songs that involve clapping or add claps into other familiar kids' songs the toddlers know. Clap along with the beat of simple toddler songs and rhymes like "Humpty Dumpty" or "Three Blind Mice."
Tips
Demonstrate the clapping activity first so the toddlers get an idea of what they're doing. If the activity involves multiple actions or intricate clapping patterns, break it down into smaller steps. Teach the toddlers each step individually, then put it together for the song or game. Encourage the kids to come up with their own variations or clapping activities. This encourages their cognitive skills and creativity in addition to the physical coordination benefits of clapping activities.
