Here are techniques for assisting students to clap rhythmic patterns - preparation for math and language patterns.

Partner and student sit on the floor, or sit together on a bed, or partner sits in a chair facing student, who is sitting in another chair.

While working on the floor, student sits cross-legged in front of partner, facing forward so that his back faces partner. If needed, partner holds student's right wrist with right hand and left wrist with left hand, so that partner can lead student's clapping pattern.

Students watch as the teacher claps the starting pattern:
1, 2, 3, 4 / 1, 2, 3, 4 / 1, 2, 3, 4 / 1, 2, 3, 4 / etc.

Students pick up the pattern by watching the teacher, feeling the rhythm within.

Now everyone closes their eyes, and by listening follows the clapping pattern in unison when the teacher changes it.

One set of hand clapping is followed by one set of floor clapping; repeat sequence over and over.

Note to teachers

While the students eyes are closed, silent claps can be included by clapping with hands and then resting hands in lap for 1 or 2 claps. Repeat the sequence till the dancers are repeating it:
1, 2, lap, 4 / 1, 2, lap, 4 / 1, 2, lap, 4 / 1, 2, lap, 4 / etc.

More practice with rhythms and clapping

Rhythmic Motor Skills for Preschoolers
Rhythmic Motor Skills for School Age Kids
Teaching Adaptive Rhythmic Movement

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For offline reading

In Adaptive Dance and Rhythms for all Ages, you'll find fun and practical adaptive techniques to teach basic dance movements, floor exercises, clapping rhythms, and expressive dance, either in separate 5 minute segments, or part of the 40 minute lesson plan. Geared for kids and adults with disabilities. Fully illustrated. 76 pages.
Adaptive Dance and Rhythms for all Ages

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About the author
Susan Kramer has been teaching students of all ages and abilities as a Dance Specialist since 1965.