Counting rhythm for music can be one of the most challenging concepts when kids learn to play the piano. Understanding sheet music and note length is an essential part of learning any musical instrument. Teach rhythm counting to kids using the following technique. Practice this over and over again at each piano lesson since repetition is the best way to learn.
Instructions
1. Memorize the regular note length. The kids should learn which note is which simply by sight and be able to recite the length of the note.
2. Begin with a regular four-measure. Briefly explain that this means there are four counts to each measure. At this time avoid telling the child about other possible measures because it will cause confusion.
3. Start with a whole note. It is best to start with the longest note and move down to smaller notes. Ensure that the child understands that a whole note lasts for the whole measure, not just a whole count.
4. Count to four rhythmically, and clap to represent the length of the note. For a whole note, clap on one of each count.
5. Move to a half note. A half note lasts for half the measure. While still counting to four, clap on the one count and three count to represent the length of a half note.
6. Continue to count to four rhythmically, and clap on every count to represent the length of a quarter note, which lasts for a quarter of the measure.
7. Clap twice per count to represent an eighth note, and four times per count for a sixteenth note.
