Here are 3 gross rhythmic motor skills for toddlers and preschoolers, listed in order of difficulty; easiest first.

For three more advanced rhythmic motor skills described and illustrated click here

If necessary at the beginning, stay at the student's side, facing the same direction, holding one of his hands, moving along together.

First, concentrate on just moving to the rhythm; perfection of technique follows with practice.

Move in straight lines, curving lines, circles or other shapes.

Teacher or onlookers clap the rhythm using hands or rhythm instrument.

tum = a strong beat of one count.
ta = weaker beat of half a count.

1. Walking
Continuous steps alternating feet.
Arms swing in opposition:
That means when right leg is in front,
left arm is in front.
Tempos, directions, levels innumerable.
Clap:
tum, tum, tum, tum

2. Running
Even quick steps varying in length and dynamic energy.
Each foot pushes off to the other foot.
Arms swing in opposition:
When right leg is in front, left arm is in front.
Many directions and levels.
Clap quickly:
ta, ta, ta, ta, ta, ta, ta, ta

3. Marching
Brisk even steps.
Supporting leg remains straight.
Working knee bends with thigh raised parallel to floor.
Many directions and patterns possible.
Arms swing in opposition, one forward, one back,
(arm of the front leg swings back).
Clap:
tum, tum, tum, tum

Rhythmic Motor Skills 4. - 6.

Homepage for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Advanced Rhythmic Motor Skills
Teaching Rhythmic Motor Skills
Benefits of Learning Rhythmic Motor Skills - Toddlers and Preschoolers
Rhythmic Motor Skills for School Age Children

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Article and photo credits Susan Kramer