tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38306834012031036302024-03-13T20:07:29.793-07:00 The Crazy Chorister~A Plentiful Plethora of Primary Plans~Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.comBlogger137125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-34852262528574785002019-12-15T08:15:00.001-08:002019-12-15T08:15:44.304-08:00Sing for Baby Jesus-Christmas song review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOjRclXG6I_ospP7fuDqcbFfuahlL_E2XDhVx-MO8gy2QgIGD1MtG71TGIp18GCyQGxtBAv7eRRxpeuveW0E2ofUWQgn7WxNNK_-jCfR75UTJiTul3dpyYMmssNALFdBZ5axlzAMU-Fj4/s1600/jesuspic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1393" data-original-width="1600" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOjRclXG6I_ospP7fuDqcbFfuahlL_E2XDhVx-MO8gy2QgIGD1MtG71TGIp18GCyQGxtBAv7eRRxpeuveW0E2ofUWQgn7WxNNK_-jCfR75UTJiTul3dpyYMmssNALFdBZ5axlzAMU-Fj4/s320/jesuspic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas up here in the Northwest! Fresh snow is on the ground, the tree is up, and Christmas Carols are the daily beat to my day. I hope you are enjoying the season and allowing some time to enjoy quite and peaceful moments where you can reflect on the Savior of the world and His love for you.<br />
<br />
Today's activity is inspired by a Christmas story I read to my children each year entitled "The Last Straw" by Paula McDonald. In it, a family decides to do secret acts of service for each other during the weeks leading up to Christmas. For every act of service, they get to add a piece of straw to the manager...the goal being to make his bed the most soft and comfy it can be by Christmas.<br />
<br />
In our 20 min of singing time, we will do the same thing, but instead of "service", we will earn straw for his bed as we review our Christmas songs for Sacrament meeting next week and make sure we are singing our very best.<br />
<br />
<b><u><i>Prep:</i></u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b>Several pieces of "Straw": </b>You can use anything to represent straw. (Yarn, rafia, ribbon, paper, or draw the straw on the chalk board and use pictures for the manager and Jesus)<br />
<br />
<b>A Manger: </b>If you do not have a manager, you can use a basket or any container you could tape a picture of a manger to it. Or, if you have an artist friend, have them draw you one on the chalk board.<br />
<br />
<b>Baby Jesus:</b> You could simply use a little baby doll, a figure from a nativity set, or a picture.<br />
<br />
<b>Song list for your Pianist</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><u><i>Presentation:</i></u></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Tell the children that we have a special job to do today as we put the finishing touches on our Christmas songs for next week. We will earn a piece of straw for every time we sing and act our best as we work on the songs. We want to make baby Jesus' bed the softest it can be for him.<br />
<br />
Review the songs you have selected. Be generous with your straw giving. Never use it negativity...never take any away that they have earned. Work on Reference, standing and sitting, loud and soft, watching the chorister.....etc.<br />
<br />
Have a wonderful week!<br />
<br />
-The Crazy Chorister<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-133029156503696452019-12-08T06:44:00.002-08:002019-12-08T06:44:55.916-08:00Guess Who Christmas edition <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLobq35KlrzTqNUyPKIvJgvpSjLphDbBczXVE-Zdjsy1K0MVozkZUvUczUyFCtUj7u0dE_Im9B8x0zTrvlpJFyNCBwJuGVSM9rwFBqEsCwhIt-b7ugte9oMYfdN_htuIMroRO_ssCv-XU/s1600/guesswho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLobq35KlrzTqNUyPKIvJgvpSjLphDbBczXVE-Zdjsy1K0MVozkZUvUczUyFCtUj7u0dE_Im9B8x0zTrvlpJFyNCBwJuGVSM9rwFBqEsCwhIt-b7ugte9oMYfdN_htuIMroRO_ssCv-XU/s1600/guesswho.jpg" /></a></div>
Merry Christmas to all of you! I hope you can take the time to enjoy this season. My stake is hosting a special nativity event for the community today, so we only have Sacrament meeting....hence, no singing time. I had an idea come to mind this morning, so I thought I would share it in case this could help anyone out last min.<br />
<br />
Remember the kids game "Guess Who"? Loved that game so much. This idea is based off of that concept. I taught the kids "Who is the Child" last week. If I were able to teach this week, I would have reviewed that song and also had a few more songs in the mix for variety. This would work well especially if you wanted to sing Christmas songs.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Prep:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b>6-8 pictures</b> of different people or objects that may be sung about in Christmas songs. Example: A picture of Joseph, Mary, Jesus, A star, An angel, The stable, a lamb, a shepherd, a wise man, a present...etc. One picture should coordinate with each song. (I will just find free "clipart" and label each picture so there is no confusion as to what or who it is) Let me know in the comments if you would like me to send you the clip art file of the songs I choose and the pics. I'll eventually add it here, I just don't have it done yet since I'm coming up with this on the fly.<br />
<br />
<b>Words to songs</b> your kids may not know<br />
<br />
<b>A song chart</b> with pg numbers for your pianist.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Presentation:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
Have the pictures displayed on the chalk board. Tell the children that we get to sing Christmas songs today and that if they listen carefully, they will hear clues as to who the song may be talking about. Sing the first song. Have a child ask a yes or no question to begin to eliminate the other pictures to see if they can come up with who you have chosen to highlight in the song (such as, is this a person? Is this a place? Is this a boy? Is this a girl? etc). Sing the song again (perhaps in a creative way) and have someone else ask a question of elimination. Continue this pattern until time is up. Give the kids a point for every one of the pictures they eventually get correct.<br />
<br />
Have a wonderful week and don't forget to join us on Facebook so you never miss a post!<br />
<br />
-The Crazy ChoristerMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-26623349411194312402019-11-30T21:25:00.002-08:002019-12-08T07:43:07.340-08:00Introduction Sunday: My, Oh My...It's Primary Pie!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season! I'm a bit late getting this out for tomorrow, but I hope, perhaps if it can't help you today, it may be able to help you in the future.<br />
<br />
<b><u><i>Preparation:</i></u></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>5-7 slices of pie </b> (I made mine from card stock and cut it from a pie box design that I found in the silhouette design store. Here is the link to the designer's blog.(http://jamielanedesigns.blogspot.com/2013/10/8-piece-pie-plate.html).<br />
<br />
If you do not have access to a cutting machine, you can make different pies easily by just cutting out some circles in different colors, stacking individual colors on top of a slightly larger circle that is crust colored. Then cut into pie shape pieces.<br />
<br />
<b>2-3 songs: </b>Pick a Christmas song or another song you would like to focus on and 2-3 different ways to sing those songs and write those on the back of the piece of pie. (only boys, only girls, humming, quiet, loud...etc) I will be teaching a Christmas song we will be singing on December 22nd for the special Sacrament Meeting Program.<br />
<br />
<b>Song list for your Pianist</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Picture Prompts if needed</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><i><u>Presentation:</u></i></b><br />
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
After a few wiggle songs (especially for Jr. Primary), explain that there will be a very important Sunday in a few weeks where the Primary children have been asked to help others feel the spirit. Tell them we will learn the words to a Christmas song, and then we will play a fun game with some "left over pie" from the holidays.<br />
<br />
Teach the song to the children, making sure to explain words and phrases. I like to let them listen to the music first and then add the words a phrase at a time to help them feel the special spirit of the song.<br />
<br />
Then show them the pie and have a child choose a piece. Sing the song in the suggested way. Perhaps have a few pieces of pie that allow the child to choose a song of their choice or their classes choice. When time runs out, make sure and express your testimony of this song and encourage the children to go home and share what they have learned with their families.<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
-The Crazy ChoristerMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-84696767527947175192019-11-21T17:10:00.000-08:002019-11-21T17:11:49.174-08:00The Thankful Primary Turkey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxZwqlbJ4zxh9R_-szc_OjmG5pJIcYJPMmUsi68ma8XunR7Hc9i686MEz3odCfN07U36qpu7xqv1HEppUea05OqxyZ60BGa4AacBxrAqezNhIEMx2JPxZh8UKQhFUyMOZTpzKhmIw1on8/s1600/primary+turkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1071" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxZwqlbJ4zxh9R_-szc_OjmG5pJIcYJPMmUsi68ma8XunR7Hc9i686MEz3odCfN07U36qpu7xqv1HEppUea05OqxyZ60BGa4AacBxrAqezNhIEMx2JPxZh8UKQhFUyMOZTpzKhmIw1on8/s320/primary+turkey.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Hello Everyone!<br />
<br />
Thanksgiving is next week in the U.S.A. and I thought it would be fun to do an activity that gets everyone ready for the holiday. There are two ideas for using the turkey. You could do one or the other...or combine and do a mix of both. You could also split and use one idea for Jr. primary and one for Sr. Primary<br />
<br />
<b>Preparation:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i>1 Turkey Body</i> (you can make this out of card stock like I did, poster board, construction paper....etc. My turkey is 16.25 inches long by about 9.75 inches at the widest point on the belly. I made it large so everyone could easily see it. I would recommend laminating the feathers and body so it will be more durable, but it's not required.<br />
<br />
<i>6 Feathers</i><b> </b>(19.5 inches long by 7 inches wide)<br />
<b><br /></b>
<i>1 Marker</i><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i>1 blindfold</i><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i>A List of songs and page numbers for your pianist</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>Presentation:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i><u>First variation:</u></i><br />
<b><br /></b>
Hide the turkey feathers around the primary room before the kids get there. Explain that your friend Tom, the thankful turkey, has come to the primary room today to sing with us. Unfortunately, the wind has blown Tom's feathers all over the primary room, but we can help him get them back. Ask a child to go and find one and bring it to the front. Ask the child what is one thing they are thankful for. Help them or have them write it on the feather. Share it with the primary. Sing the song on the back of the feather in a fun way...such as fast/slow, loud/soft, boys/girls, etc....<br />
<br />
<i><u>Second Variation:</u></i><br />
<i><u><br /></u></i>
After the child writes what he is thankful for, put a blindfold on him and have him try and pin the feather on Tom while the kids sing the song. Have the children sing softer when the child is closer to placing it the correct way.<br />
<br />
Have a great week!<br />
<br />
-The Crazy Chorister<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><br /></b>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-63411220194173395122019-11-16T18:11:00.000-08:002019-11-16T18:50:50.773-08:00Primary Gone Wild Additional AnimalsHello! For my first Sunday back after a decade, I thought I'd revamp an old favorite. The original post title is "Primary Gone Wild", and it's on the side bar if you would like to try it. It's essentially the same activity, but I'm adding a few more animals to the idea and updated some of the songs. I'm still using animal hand puppets, but you can easily use pictures or clip-art added to paper bags to do the activity.<br />
<br />
<strong style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Preparation:</strong><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Animal puppets. (I happen to have a great deal of animal puppets, but you could print out cute clip-art pictures of animals, color them, and attach them to paper lunch bags to make cute puppets. If you would like</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Cheat sheet for you and your pianist so the time isn't wasted trying to find the song</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">A fun bag to put everything in</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></span>
<strong style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Presentation:</strong><br />
<strong style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></strong>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Put your bag full of puppets on a table at the front of the room. Tell the children that you had a bunch of "wild" friends beg to come to primary with you. Each one of your friends has a favorite primary song they would like to lead the kids in, and they also have a special way they like to sing their song.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Percy Pig</span></strong><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">---Percy
is a prankster. He loves to do silly things. (Take the wig out and
have Percy hold it) Tell the children that Percy loves to play
"Teacher guess the song". If the teacher can guess the song in
a few notes, the chorister has to wear the silly wig, if they guess it
wrong....the teacher has to wear the wig during his favorite song. <b>(Pg.
253 Singing a Song is Fun to Do)</b></span><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Cathy
Caterpillar</span></strong><span style="background: white;">---She loves slow and
reverent songs. Sing the song as slow and reverent as possible. <b>(Pg.
74 I feel my Savior’s Love)</b></span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Floyd
Flamingo</span></strong><span style="background: white;">---Floyd loves to sing
his song standing on one leg. Have the children sing the song while
standing on one leg and see who can make it all the way through the song.
<b>(Pg. 55 Jesus Once was a little child)<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Felix
Fly---</span></strong><span style="background: white;">Felix likes to land on people’s
heads during the song and doesn't want to get off unless they know the next
phrase. Have the children hum or buzz the song, Felix will land on a
child's or teacher's head during the song and have them repeat the next
line. <b>(Pg. 246 It’s Autumntime)</b></span><b><br />
</b><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Polly
Peacock</span></strong><span style="background: white;">---Polly is shy and
doesn't want to lead the music, but she loves to switch places with a child in
the audience. You and Polly go sit where the child was sitting and have
that child lead the song. <b>(pg. 95 I love to see the temple)</b></span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Marvin
Monkey</span></strong><span style="background: white;">--- Marvin loves it when
the children sing his song monkey style in Ooo's and Aahs. <b>(pg 78 I’m
trying to be like Jesus)</b></span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Freddy
Frog</span></strong><span style="background: white;">--- Freddy just cannot
stay still for music time. He loves to hop right out of his seat every
time he hears the word "I". Have the children up every time
they sing the word "I" <b>(Pg 77 I belong to the church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-Day saints)</b> (for Sr. primary, I let them hop
down the row to the next seat....they loved that.)</span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Peter
Pelican</span></strong><span style="background: white;"> --- Peter loves it
when the kids sing staccato so he can peck the beat. Have the children
help Charlie peck the beat to this song. <b>(pg. 118 Book of Mormon
Stories)</b></span><b><br />
</b><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Matthew
Moose---</span></strong><span style="background: white;">Matthew loves to play
"hide it and find it". Have Matthew give the bean bag to a
child to hide it, and then have a child come and find it while you play the
song. You could even have the child finding it wear Matthew on their hand
so he can "help" too. <b>(pg. 146 Keep the commandments)</b></span><b><br />
</b><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Edgar
Eagle---</span></strong><span style="background: white;"> Edgar likes to fly
up high so the children will sing louder, or fly down low so they sing
softer. <b>(136 As I have loved you)</b></span><br />
<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><strong><span style="background: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Alfred Alligator</span></strong><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">---Alfred
loves to make people happy. Have the children face the door of the
primary room. Have them sing. If someone comes by, have them smile
as big as possible to try and get that person to smile. You might have to
prearrange for someone to walk by<b>.....(pg. 267 if you chance to meet a frown)</b></span><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Peter
Pelican</span></strong><span style="background: white;">--- Peter loves to carry
around shinning things in his mouth. Have him show the coin. Tell
them that he is going to throw it up in the air. If it lands on
heads..boys sing.....if tails...girls sing. <b>(pg 198 When we’re helping
we’re happy)</b></span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Oscar Owl</span></strong><span style="background: white;">--- Oscar loves to play "hot potato".
Have the children pass around the bean bag as fast as they can to see if
everyone can have a chance to pass it before the end of the song. <b>(Pg.
61Jesus said love everyone)</b></span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Brian
Bear</span></strong><span style="background: white;">---Brian just loves primary
teachers. Have the teachers stand up and do hinges as the children sing
it. Have the teachers pretend they are very very old and slow. Then
have the kids stand up and do it as fast as they can. <b>(pg. 277 I’m all
made of hinges)</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Sean Shark: </span></i></b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Sean
loves to smile! He loves to see everyone smile really big. Have the
kids sing "If you chance to meet a frown" <b>(pg 236 give said the
little stream)</b> with huge smiles the entire time.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="background: white;"><br />
<b><i>Larry Lobster: </i></b>Larry likes to clap his claws to the beat of
the music. Have the children clap gently to the beat of the music. <b>(pg
196 Saturday)</b></span><br />
<span style="background: white;"><br />
<b><i>Olive Octopus: </i></b>Olive likes to Hide. Have a child
Hide Olive. Have another child come and and find Olive while the children
sing <b>(pg.198 A Happy Family)</b>.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;"><br />
<b><i>Tyler Turtle: </i></b>Tyler Turtle likes his shell because
it's a sturdy home. Have the children sing <b>(pg 281 Wise man/Foolish
man) </b>while doing the actions to wise man/foolish man.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;"><br />
<b><i>Sally Starfish: </i></b> Sally is shy. Have the children
sing gently to her as she finally shines and is happy<b>(pg 163 I am like a
star shining brightly)</b>.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;"><br />
<b><i>Debbie Dolphin: </i></b>Debbie loves to spin around, jump, and
bob her head up and down. Have the children follow Debbie as you sing <b>(pg
276 Do As I’m Doing).</b></span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><span style="background: white;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">You can copy and paste the following to give to your Pianist...</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Percy Pig</span></strong><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">-(Pg. 253
Singing a Song is Fun to Do)</span><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Cathy
Caterpillar</span></strong><span style="background: white;">-(Pg. 74 I feel
my Savior’s Love)</span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Floyd
Flamingo</span></strong><span style="background: white;">-(Pg. 55 Jesus Once was a little child)<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<strong><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Felix
Fly-</span></strong><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">(Pg. 246 It’s Autumn time)</span><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Polly Peacock</span></strong><span style="background: white;">-(pg. 95 I love to see the temple)</span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Marvin Monkey</span></strong><span style="background: white;">-(pg 78 I’m trying to be like Jesus)</span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Freddy Frog:</span></strong><span style="background: white;"> (Pg 77 I belong to the church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-Day saints)<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Peter Pelican</span></strong><span style="background: white;"> -(pg. 118 Book of Mormon Stories)</span><b><br />
</b><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Matthew
Moose-</span></strong><span style="background: white;">(pg. 146 Keep the commandments)</span><b><br />
</b><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Edgar
Eagle-</span></strong><span style="background: white;">(136 As I have loved you)</span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Alfred
Alligator-</span></strong><span style="background: white;">(pg. 267 if you chance to meet a frown)</span><b><br />
</b><br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Peter Pelican</span></strong><span style="background: white;">-(pg 198 When we’re helping we’re happy)</span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Oscar Owl</span></strong><span style="background: white;">---(Pg. 61 Jesus said love everyone)</span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background: white;">Brian Bear</span></strong><span style="background: white;">-(pg. 277 I’m all made of hinges)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Sean
Shark-</span></b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">(pg 236 give said the little stream) </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="background: white;"><br />
<b></b><b>Larry Lobster-</b>(pg 196 Saturday)</span></span><br />
<span style="background: white;"><br />
<b></b><b>Olive Octopus-</b>(pg.198 A Happy Family).</span><br />
<span style="background: white;"><br />
<b></b><b>Tyler Turtle-</b>(pg. 281 Wise man/Foolish man)<b> </b><br />
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<b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Sally
Starfish:</span></b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"> (pg. 163 I am like a star shining brightly).</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<span style="background: white;"><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><b></b></span><b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Debbie Dolphin:<i> </i></span></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(pg. 276
Do As I’m Doing)</span><b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.85px;">Have the children say hello and goodbye to the animals as they come and go. You can save the animals you do not get to for another easy activity in future weeks.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.85px;">Have a great day!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.85px;">-The Crazy Chorister</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></span>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-78838290950945071262019-11-16T17:16:00.001-08:002019-11-16T17:25:17.715-08:00The Crazy Chorister is Back!Over a decade ago, I was called to be the Primary Chorister. I found so much joy serving in that calling, and shared that joy and lots of ideas through this blog. I was released nearly 9 years ago. In that 9 years, I've served in many different callings that I enjoyed, but none has ever filled me as much as primary chorister (YW camp director came very close). Last week, I was released from my sweet calling in nursery and before I could be sad about it, he said, ...."and we would like to call you to be the primary chorister". I nearly jumped out of my chair to give him a hug. It couldn't have come at a better time in my life. It felt like a gift from Heavenly Father.<br />
<br />
I never thought I'd be able to revisit and contribute again to this blog. I don't know if its still helpful or of use to anyone. But, if it is, I hope I can jump back into the calling with both feet and help others to embrace the joy.<br />
<br />
I'm going to try my best to update the blog regularly with my Sunday plans. Please feel free to ask questions or contribute your own ideas in the comment sections. Let's do this together!<br />
<br />
The fun begins again tomorrow! Wish me luck!<br />
<br />
-The Crazy ChoristerMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-34997719972510778982017-05-09T12:14:00.000-07:002017-05-09T12:14:20.677-07:00Introduction Sunday: When I am Baptized pg 103Howdy Folks! Every now and then I get the phone call of my dreams and someone asks me to substitute as Primary Chorister for a day. So, I thought I'd include what I taught on Sunday just in case it would help any of you out there. It's been so long since I posted....I truly hope this blog is still helping some of you out.<br />
<br />
PREP:<br />
<br />
1 colorful umbrella (or just an umbrella)<br />
1 jacket (I brought my rain jacket..but any jacket will do)<br />
1 Rain Stick (there are several DIY on how to make a rain stick. Just keep it simple)<br />
Colorful Popsicle sticks (you can get these at the craft section of Walmart)<br />
Four different color streamers (I chose Red, Yellow, Blue, and Green)<br />
Red, Yellow, Blue, Green card stock with one line of the song on each one...for example, RED would have the line "I like to look for Rainbows", Blue would have "Whenever there is Rain"....etc.<br />
White Card stock that has the chorus on it. I used four pieces of White card stock for the chorus'.<br />
<br />
Before hand, attach small strips of streamer to the Popsicle sticks. Match the color of streamer with the color of the Popsicle stick. The idea is to make small banners the kids can wave around.<br />
<br />
PRESENTATION:<br />
<br />
Begin by having the kids guess what song you will be learning about. Show them the umbrella, put on your rain jacket (if you have rain boots that could be fun too)....have them silently raise their hands when they think they know. Pick up the rain stick...let them hear the sound a couple of times. When you have the majority of the children raising their hands, have the pianist begin to play the music softly. Ask the children to hum the melody with you. You could even point out that the rhythm of the music is similar to the rhythm of a soft rain. Pass out your banners. Try to spread the different colors around the room. Have the children say the words of the song with you as you hang up the different colors of papers on the board. Explain why rain cleaning the Earth can be symbolic of our own baptism. Tell the children to listen for the rain stick sound to start the music. Encourage them to be reverent. Then, have each group stand and wave their banner in coordination with the color of paper on the board. Ex,..the red group would stand, wave their banner, and sing.."I like to look for rainbows" then the blue group would stand and sing.."Whenever there is rain....etc. All groups stand and wave their banners and sing the chorus. Have them do this exercise twice. Then, if there is still time, repeat the exercise with the second verse. I simply had the second vs words on the reverse side of the colored paper.<br />
<br />
Hope that sparks some ideas of your own. Happy Chorsitering! I'm jealous of all of you. <br />
<br />
Love, The once upon a time Crazy ChorsiterMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-86992454976280924232013-12-10T14:24:00.000-08:002013-12-10T14:24:06.056-08:00The Gift of ChristmasHowdy folks,<br />
<br />
I substituted for the chorister on Sunday and thought I'd post the idea I used.<br />
<br />
Prep:<br />
<br />
1 picture or toy of Jesus in the manger (I used my Fisher Price manger set piece)<br />
1 small box for the toy to go into<br />
8-10 different layers of wrapping paper<br />
<br />
Put the picture or Toy of Jesus into the Box, then wrap it in different layers of wrapping paper.<br />
<br />
Presentation:<br />
<br />
Tell the children that you have a special gift of Christmas you want to share with them. Tell them that the pianist will start to play a song...as soon as they know the song and start singing it...they will begin to pass the present. The pianist can play the whole song or stop whenever...but when the music stops the child holding the gift will unwrap one layer of the present. You continue to do this until you get to Jesus. Then bare your testimony about Heavenly Father's gift to the world was His Only Begotten Son.<br />
<br />
It went really well, and the spirit was present. Merry Christmas.<br />
<br />
-thecrazychoristerMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-57337962953059952332013-01-11T14:55:00.001-08:002013-01-11T14:56:11.409-08:00TWO HOURS OF FUNAnd....I'm back. Well, at least for two hours this coming Sunday. And, I have to say...I'm totally excited. I've been in RS now for just over half a year, and I miss the fun of Primary. <br />
<br />
Still trying to get my ideas together...post coming soon. :)<br />
<br />
-thecrazychorister "just for a day"Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-89086417885651955822012-06-10T16:15:00.000-07:002012-06-10T16:15:32.828-07:00It had to happen sometime...Well, after over four years in primary...I was called into Relief Society again. Strange trade off, and many tears. I love those kids.<br />
<br />
So, as much as I hate to say it...The Crazy Chorister is offically retired. I will keep the blog up for all of you who still desire to gather ideas.<br />
<br />
Thanks for all the kind comments over the years.<br />
<br />
-MelanieMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-12312952742326221192012-02-13T15:50:00.000-08:002012-02-13T15:50:55.822-08:00Happy NewsHey ya'll,<br />
<br />
My dearest friend was called to be the chorister yesterday in our ward! I'm totally thrilled beyond measure because she's a zany as I am and I know will come up with some GREAT chorister ideas.<br />
<br />
I'm going to see if I can talk her into blogging her ideas here. We'll see....I might just have to be that primary spy that writes all her great ideas down.<br />
<br />
Have a great week!Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-47947152604100524082012-01-30T17:49:00.000-08:002012-01-30T17:49:56.546-08:00A Sub for the SubHi guys,<br />
<br />
Well....I'm up for sharing time this month so I had to pass the chorister hat to another fantastic sister. Thanks Dee!<br />
<br />
I had a few ideas that I'm going to use for sharing time that you could also use for a singing time if you wanted...so I'll see what I can do to post them.<br />
<br />
Hope you all are having the best time each week!<br />
<br />
-MelanieMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-3194871892401151822012-01-21T18:27:00.000-08:002012-01-21T18:27:09.242-08:00Captain CTR--Choose the RightHowdy folks...<br />
<br />
Still filling in for the chorister position. My primary kids have learned our song really well, and after a short review I plan on moving to the Feb. Song..Choose The Right. Here's my plan.<br />
<br />
<b>Prep:</b><br />
<br />
1 willing adult volunteer who would like to dress up as Captain CTR (Green Cape, CTR Badge or Tie, The CTR shield from last week.....nothing major)<br />
<br />
Enough small CTR signs for each child (these can be printouts from your computer)<br />
<br />
Words or Flip Chart for "Choose the Right"<br />
<br />
<b>Presentation:</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
Review January song. Then tell the children that there is a special guest today. Have your pianist play "Choose the Right" vigorously as Captain CTR comes into the room. Have Captain CTR tell the children why it is so important to always choose the right...and perhaps why he loves to choose the right (it makes him happy). Have him give the children each a CTR sign to hold. Then have him exit to the pianist playing the song again. Proceed to teach the children Choose the right....and each time they Sing "right" have them lift up their CTR sign.<br />
<br />
Sounds like fun...can't wait.<br />
<br />
*thecrazychoristerMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-65789790076523437982012-01-18T10:39:00.000-08:002012-01-18T10:39:42.312-08:00SNOW!Hello,<br />
<br />
We finally are getting snow here in the Inland Northwest! Sure took a while this year, but I'm actually really enjoying it....as long as I don't have to drive in it. :)<br />
<br />
Anyhow, I thought I'd post a version of Pop Corn Popping that I sing with the kids when it snows...it's kind of fun....<br />
<br />
I looked out the window and what did I see?<br />
Snow has covered my Apricot Tree!<br />
Winter has brought me such a nice surprise<br />
Snow is falling right before my eyes!<br />
<br />
I can take an armful and make a Man.<br />
I'll build him up just as fast as I can.<br />
<br />
It was a lot of snow,<br />
and it seemed to me!<br />
Snow had covered my Apricot Tree!<br />
<br />
Author Unknown.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-41095131347927191632012-01-13T08:43:00.001-08:002012-01-13T08:43:19.397-08:00QuestionsGood Morning...<br />
<br />
Some of you have asked questions recently in the comment boxes. I've done my best to answer them as I can. I answer them in the comment boxes..so if you want to recheck there, I hope I can be of some help to you.<br />
<br />
Have a great day!Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-84334961743691484022012-01-10T17:51:00.000-08:002012-01-10T17:51:46.097-08:00Week 3: Shield of ProtectionI hope all of you are having a great week. This week the primary president and I are combining efforts for singing and sharing time because of the suggestion for week three in the 2012 sharing time outline for January. It has the person doing sharing time teach a simple concept and then have the children sing a song to support that concept. It makes sense to combine efforts. <br />
<br />
Anyhow, here is the idea I came up with to make it a little more interesting on the singing side of things beyond just having the children sing the song, but it also keeps a reverent atmosphere because all of these songs are reverent songs.<br />
<br />
<b>Preparation:</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>A Large Poster Board cut into the shape of the CTR Symbol---after making the shield cut it into 6 pieces. The Front of the shield should be the CTR Symbol when all pieces are combined. On the back of each piece, write the title to each song listed in the outline for week three.</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Presentation:</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Have the person doing sharing time explain the first concept. When they are done, explain to the children that you would like to have them help you build a shield of protection. Have them choose the title of the song that best fits the concept that was just explained to them. Then put that corresponding piece up on the chalk board with tape or a magnet to hold it in place. You can have the child choose a reverent way to sing the song (girls sing, boys sing, teachers sing, acapella, ooh the song, hum the song, sing really quite..etc)</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Repeat the process with the other concepts and songs going back and forth between you and the person doing sharing time. When you are finished, you and the children will have built a CTR shield. Explain that each concept helps to build a shield of protection for us. Each good choice we make helps to protect us from Satan and helps us make it back to our Heavenly Father. Encourage them to always strive to have a strong shield of protection by always choosing the right.</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Have a great week!</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>*thecrazychorister</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-14704260803034733542012-01-05T09:10:00.000-08:002012-01-06T08:31:35.282-08:00Repeat Week: Which Brick Will It Be? (As A Child of God)Howdy Folks. We still do not have a chorister called, and so I have the privileged of taking on week two for the new song this month. When I was chorister, I really liked to take week two to cement the words and music in the children's minds by playing a game that accomplished that, but also was fun enough to distract them from the fact that they were singing the same song a bajillion times in 20 min.<br />
<br />
Here's my plan for this week.<br />
<br />
<b>Prep:</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Enough card board bricks to make a small wall. (Now I realize that most of us do not have these readily on hand. I happen to find them at a garage sale years ago....but here are a few replacement ideas that will still allow you to do the same thing. Small flat rate shipping boxes (you can get these at no charge from the post office), empty baby wipe containers, Empty juice box boxes (the long boxes that come with 12 juice packs in them, 12 pack soda box containers, or simply wooden building blocks or a jenga set.</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>One Word of the song placed on each brick (or if you do not have all that many just group them by 2-4 words to cut down on the box or block needs. If its for Jr. Primary, you might want to consider some pictures for key words to remind them since many of them do not read yet.</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Presentation:</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Before Primary set up the wall. Make sure all the words are facing front so they can be easily seen. Put them in order as well.</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Tell the children we are going to review "As A Child of God" by practicing making good choices. Show them the wall. Tell them that the goal is to remove one word (or group of words) at a time (singing the song after each removal) and trying to see how many words they can remove without having the wall fall down. They must choose wisely, for if the wall falls down we have to sing the whole song without any helps to rebuild it. To spice it up a bit, you can have the children sing the song in a different way each time to keep it fresh...such as staccato, acapella, oohing, standing on one leg, covering one eye....etc.</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>This activity acts as a memorizing game since they must remember the words that have been removed. It is very helpful for the boys especially because besides memorizing, they are each trying to solve the puzzle of how to keep the wall standing and so it minimizes boredom and non participation.</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Have a great week! Is it awful to hope they keep taking their time with calling a new chorister? :)</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>*thecrazychorister (sometimes)</b>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-11094000883967171862011-12-29T20:54:00.000-08:002011-12-29T20:54:18.494-08:00Introduction Week: As A Child of GodWell...some of the wards in our stake were split a few weeks back. I stayed in the Primary Presidency, but we lost our Chorister...so until we get another one.....I get to fill in!!! So much fun.<br />
<br />
So, This coming Sunday we will begin learning "As a Child of God". I thought I'd post my plan just in case any one out there still visits this blog...<br />
<br />
<strong>Preparation</strong>:<br />
<br />
Two Large bags (Brown Paper Grocery bags work best)---on the front of one put Choice #1 and on the other put Choice #2.<br />
<br />
Several objects that correspond with the words of the song....The words I picked are:<br />
<br />
Earth (globe or picture of Earth), Choose (the word on a piece of paper), family (picture of family), light (flash light or other light you can bring), Holy Ghost (picture of a child praying with the word Holy Ghost attached to it), Right(The word Right and an arrow pointing to the right).<br />
<br />
Several objects that are silly fill in words for the words in the song....what I chose is:<br />
<br />
A Picture of Mars, A Cookie, Stuffed Animal, cell phone, Comic Book (or other magazine), A picture of a nice meal representing Dinner.<br />
<br />
Okay...so are you confused yet....here is how it will all come together...<br />
<br />
<strong>Presentation:</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Before Primary, put the objects randomly into each bag. Make sure you don't have all the correct choices in the same bag so it doesn't get predictable.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Have a child come to the front. Tell them that we are learning a brand new song that will help us understand the importance of making good choices and how that can bring us peace and happiness. Tell them the first line to the song. Pull out the Globe and the Picture of Mars. Tell them that the first line of the song is....." I came to ? with the power to ? Have the child choose between the two objects to fill in the blanks. You could say... Is the correct line... I came to EARTH.....or I Came to Mars? Then sing repeat the line...and move on through the song until you get to the end. For the next part I'll say....Is the Line I came to Earth with the power to Choose or I came to Earth with the Power to Make Cookies? I think you get the picture. It's simple, yes...and pretty obvious....but I think it drives home the point that choice means something.</strong><br />
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<strong>In case you have a child that thinks its really funny to choose the wrong answer....humor them and sing the wrong line and show them how it not only doesn't fit the song, but it doesn't fit the message either. </strong><br />
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<strong>Anyhow,..have fun. It's great to be able to do this every now and then. Have a great week.</strong>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-72300468641134901962011-07-10T09:44:00.000-07:002011-07-10T09:44:54.199-07:00I Spy with my Primary EyeI used this for a sharing time idea, but I realized this could translate into a great idea for singing time as well.<br />
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<strong>Prep:</strong><br />
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Objects or pictures that teach a line or concept of the lesson (song)<br />
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<strong>Presentation:</strong><br />
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Put up the pictures or objects around the room. Have the kids make glasses around their eyes with their hands and have everyone say..." I spy with my Primary eye..." and then you fill in the blank with something like...."a picture of the temple" or "something we do before we go to bed at night (picture of praying child)"....etc. Choose a child to find that object in the room. Sing a line of the song it goes with, or teach the concept from that picture. Proceed until all objects/pictures have been found.<br />
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Jr. Primary LOVED it, and really got into it. With Sr. Primary, you could step it up a notch and attach a Scripture reference and have them look it up.<br />
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Have a nice week.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-34524857388016876602011-06-30T08:34:00.000-07:002019-11-16T18:09:27.229-08:00Primary Gone WildWell....hello again. I'm not sure really anyone checks this blog anymore, but I thought it was about time to post something. I've been the second counselor for Primary these eight or so months...and I think I've subbed for the chorister at least a dozen times..more or less. I've enjoyed teaching sharing time (thought about posting some of those ideas...but didn't want to start an entirely different blog...to much work).<br />
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Anyhow, I thought I should post some of the things I've done as substitute so...here's my first "I'm the crazy chorister sometimes" post.<br />
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<strong>Preparation:</strong><br />
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10-15 animal puppets. (I happen to have a great deal of animal puppets, but you could print out cute clipart pictures of animals, color them, and attach them to paper lunch bags to make cute puppets.<br />
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Cheat sheet for you and your pianist so the time isn't wasted trying to find the song<br />
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A fun bag to put everything in<br />
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1 Bean bag<br />
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1 coin<br />
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1 silly hat or wig or dress up (whatever you have that is silly and can be worn is great...I used a bright, purple wig)<br />
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<strong>Presentation:</strong><br />
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Put your bag full of puppets on a table at the front of the room. Tell the children that you had a bunch of "wild" friends beg to come to primary with you. Each one of your friends has a favorite primary song they would like to lead the kids in, and they also have a special way they like to sing their song.<br />
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<strong>Percy Pig</strong>---Percy is a prankster. He loves to do silly things. (Take the wig out and have Percy hold it) Tell the children that Percy loves to play "Teacher guess the song". If the teacher can guess the song in a few notes, the chorister has to wear the silly wig, if they guess it wrong....the teacher has to wear the wig during his favorite song. (Pg. 253)<br />
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<strong>Cathy Caterpillar</strong>---She loves slow and reverent songs. Sing the song as slow and reverent as possible. (Pg. 74)<br />
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<strong>Floyd Flamingo</strong>---Floyd loves to sing his song standing on one leg. Have the children sing the song while standing on one leg and see who can make it all the way through the song. (Praise to the Man)<br />
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<strong>Felix Fly---</strong>Felix likes to land on peoples heads during the song and doesn't want to get off unless they know the next phrase. Have the children hum or buzz the song, Felix will land on a child's or teacher's head during the song and have them repeat the next line. (Pg. 245)<br />
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<strong>Polly Peacock</strong>---Polly is stubborn and doesn't want to lead the music, but she loves to switch places with a child in the audience. You and Polly go sit where the child was sitting and have that child lead the song. (pg. 95)<br />
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<strong>Marvin Monkey</strong>--- Marvin loves it when the children sing his song monkey style in Ooo's and Aahs. (pg 159)<br />
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<strong>Freddy Frog</strong>--- Freddy just cannot stay still for music time. He loves to hop right out of his seat every time he hears the word "I". Have the children up every time they sing the word "I" (Pg 77) (for Sr. primary, I let them hop down the row to the next seat....they loved that.)<br />
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<strong>Charlie Chicken</strong>--- Charlie loves it when the kids sing staccato so he can peck the beat. Have the children help charlie peck the beat to this song. (pg. 118)<br />
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<strong>Matthew Moose---</strong>Matthew loves to play "hide it and find it". Have Matthew give the bean bag to a child to hide it, and then have a child come and find it while you play the song. You could even have the child finding it wear Matthew on their hand so he can "help" too. (pg. 96)<br />
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<strong>Edgar Eagle---</strong> Edgar likes to fly up high so the children will sing louder, or fly down low so they sing softer. (If I listen with my heart)<br />
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<strong>Alfred Alligator</strong>---Alfred loves to smile at people. Have the children face the door of the primary room. Have them sing. If someone comes by, have them smile as big as possible to try and get that person to smile. You might have to prearrange for someone to walk by.....(pg. 236)<br />
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<strong>Peter Pelican</strong>--- Peter loves to carry around shinning things in his mouth. Have him show the coin. Tell them that he is going to throw it up in the air. If it lands on heads..boys sing.....if tails...girls sing. (pg 164)<br />
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<strong>Oscar Owl</strong>--- Oscar loves to play "hot potato". Have the children pass around the bean bag as fast as they can to see if everyone can have a chance to pass it before the end of the song. (Pg. 61)<br />
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<strong>Brian Bear</strong>---Brian just loves primary teachers. Have the teachers stand up and do hinges as the children sing it. Have the teachers pretend they are very very old and slow. Then have the kids stand up and do it as fast as they can. (pg. 277)<br />
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I had the Jr. Primary say "hello" and "goodbye" to the animals as they were picked. They really loved it. For Sr. primary...I skipped the pretending for the most part and just used the animals as indicators for the songs and activities....they actually really enjoyed it too. <br />
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I had a great time doing it. I always appreciate the opportunity to wear the chorister hat again. Have a great day!<br />
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*thecrazychoristerMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-22628919321157861512010-12-28T20:25:00.000-08:002010-12-28T20:27:44.376-08:00Good ByeHey, they called a new chorister and she starts this coming Sunday.<br /><br />It was a great experience being a Chorister and I'll always cherish all the fun and uplifting times I had each week.<br /><br />Thank you for encouraging me with your comments. I hope you all have success and find joy in your calling as I did.<br /><br />May the Lord Bless you.<br /><br />-Melanie KetchesonMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-37954010625144448902010-12-07T07:35:00.001-08:002010-12-07T07:56:26.086-08:00One more for old times sake?---Christmas Singing Sugar CookiesHey folks....they haven't found a replacement for me yet and so I've been pulling double duty for a couple of weeks. I think they are being kind and allowing me to back away slowly so I don't go into shock. :)<br /><br />Anyhow, I had a fun idea this past week for singing time and it worked really well and was so much fun. I thought I'd post it.<br /><br /><strong>Prep:</strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">6-7 different shaped Christmas Cookie Cutters</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">1 12 x 12 piece of brownish (dough colored) paper</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">6-7 different colored paper</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">1 cookie sheet</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">Tape</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">Use your cookie cutters to trace their shape on the large piece of brown paper. Fit them like a puzzle so all of them fit just as you would if you were trying to get the most out of the last bit of cookie dough. I used the outside edge of the cookie cutter to get the largest shape possible for the dough part. Carefully cut them out and tape the large brown paper back together where you cut through. Write different <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Christmas</span> songs on the back of the cookies</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">Now, using the inside edge of the cutter, trace and cut the different shapes out of the colored paper. This will serve as the frosting of the cookie so you want it slightly smaller than the cookie. </span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">Before singing time begins, tape the "dough" on the board, and using a small piece of tape on the back of each cookie, carefully fit them back into their cut out spot on the dough.</span></strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Presentation:</strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">I Welcomed the children to primary. I Explained that fun family traditions are always apart of the Christmas season and I wanted to share with them my family tradition of making sugar cookies. As we sang "do as I'm doing" I had them follow me in pretending to make the dough for the cookies and rolling it out.</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">I then showed them my cookie cutters. I explained that as the pianist was playing some music, they would pass one of the cookie cutters around the room. When the music randomly stopped, whoever was holding the cookie cutter would come up and try and find the shape on the dough that it matched. Place the cookie on the cookie sheet. (I leaned my cookie sheet up on the chalk board so all could see the cookies on the tray as we put them there) We would then sing the song on the back (I made it slightly harder for senior...they had to try and guess what song it was). If they sang the song really well, I told them we would be able to decorate the cookie.</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">To decorate the cookie, have them pretend to have a huge bag of whatever color frosting goes with that cookie. Have them pretend from their seats to frost the cookie their very best. Tape the frosting to the cookie. Repeat the process until all the cookie cutters have been passed around the room.</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">This was so much fun, and we were able to sing quite a few Christmas songs...even some they didn't really know.</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">I hope you all are having a very Merry Christmas!</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">*<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">thecrazychorister</span> (who apparently can't let go)</span></strong>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-65832257948754523572010-11-07T17:31:00.000-08:002010-11-14T17:05:11.885-08:00Nothing More Constant than Change....Dear Fellow choristers, My friends....<br /><br />Today was a bitter /sweet Sunday. I was released from my calling as Primary Chorister, and as the tears fell...I was called to be the 2nd counselor of the Primary....and then the tears really started to fall. :)<br /><br />The past two and a half years have been a joy to me. I have never felt so encompassed by the spirit through each step of my calling. I will be forever grateful for this opportunity to serve and hope someday I can have this calling again. It's simply too much fun.<br /><br />I am grateful to all of you for your kind remarks and words of encouragement as I have shared the inspirations I received for this calling, and I'm grateful if I helped you in any way.<br /><br />Now...what to do about this blog.... Well, obviously I will not be posting new ideas since I will need to concentrate on my new calling, but the suggestions on this blog will be at your disposal.<br /><br />If I could leave you with one suggestion that I learned as I've had the privilege of serving in this capacity...., Don't rely on blogs like this one to do your calling for you. They are great resources and I benefited many times from others ideas, but YOU were called as Chorister of your ward primary for a reason. The Lord is waiting to help you grow if you will come unto him and ask Him how He would like you to teach these children. I have a testimony that He has made up for everything I lacked coming into this calling. He consistently gave me answers, lesson plans, and words to speak that made all the difference to the children I was called to teach. He knows their hearts and the way they learn best. Trust Him. Go to Him. You will find miracles are waiting for you and those kids.<br /><br />Thank you for all you do in serving children of this church. We are truly raising a mighty generation that will have the strength to overcome all and endure to the end because they know the Truth and love the Savior.<br /><br />I know my Savior Lives and Loves us. He is my friend, and I am so grateful to serve Him in anyway I can.<br /><br /><br />Bless you All,<br /><br />Melanie Ketcheson ( aka: The Crazy Chorister)Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-45698841394625063652010-10-25T07:45:00.001-07:002010-10-26T16:24:24.809-07:00Primary Program Reward...new take on used ideaHey folks! We preformed our primary program yesterday, and it was heavenly. My kids did so well, and many ward members were obviously touched. I am so grateful for all their hard work, and Heavenly Father who <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">truly</span> blessed all of us.<br /><br />So, I wanted to give these kids a big thank you and also to relax a bit....we've had a few Sundays of intense practicing (not much fun for them). I decided to combine a couple of ideas I've used in the past, and it turned out to be the funniest and funnest reward for them and me.<br /><br />I'm calling this.....<br /><br /><strong><em>It's Either You or Me</em></strong><br /><strong><em></em></strong><br />Okay, so the basic idea is a combination of "Spin the Teacher", "crazy hat day", and "name that tune."<br /><br /><strong>PREP:</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />A bunch of dress up items in a bag...(I took hats, gloves, crazy glasses, ugly ties, capes, etc....)<br /><br />Borrow A <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">swivel</span> chair from the clerks or bishops office<br /><br />8-10 pieces of paper with Random, fun Primary songs that the children know well (DO NOT USE THE PROGRAM SONGS)<br /><br /><strong>PRESENTATION:</strong><br /><br />Okay, so explain that you're going to choose a teacher to come sit in the chair up front if their class is reverent. Have the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">pieces</span> of paper with the song titles on them face down on the floor all around the chair....like a clock.<br /><br />Have a teacher come up front and sit down. Have them lift their feet slightly. Have the pianist play some music and begin to spin the teacher (slowly). When the music comes to a stop, have the teacher put their feet down. Whatever piece of paper their feet is on, pick it up and show the title of the song to their teacher. Ask the teacher how many notes they think their class needs to get the song. Then you also give a guess to how many notes. If the teacher says, "5" and you say "6"...have the pianist give them the fewer notes first. If they get it right on the teachers guess...the teacher picks a dress up for you to wear. If miss on their teacher's guess and get your guess then you get to pick a dress up for their teacher to wear. Then sing the song.<br /><br />This was too much fun for both the kids and teacher and me. I ended up looking like some sort of rodeo clown princess...and several teachers where wearing funny hats etc. They kids were so thrilled.<br /><br />I will say, this was a more lively activity then most. We kept it under control, but expect a more lively reaction.<br /><br />Anyhow, it couldn't have been a better day all around. I hope you had or will have a fantastic program.<br /><br />Now, ...on to getting ready for Christmas!<br /><br />*<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">thecrazychorister</span>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830683401203103630.post-45206826747092041332010-10-18T10:11:00.000-07:002010-10-18T10:23:09.711-07:00Primary Program Helpful HintsFor all those who haven't had their program yet, this might be helpful to you. I have a few suggestions that might help your little primary kids sing their best and make a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">rehearsal</span> go smoother.<br /><br /><strong>A.</strong> Bring three different colored flags, pieces of paper, or something you can have some hold up at the back of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">chapel</span>. I had a red flag, a yellow flag, and a blue flag. I had a sister sit at the back of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">chapel</span> for our <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">rehearsal</span>. I told the children that during the songs, Sister <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Loomis</span> will hold up the Red flag if you need to be louder, The Yellow flag if you need to be softer, and the blue flag if you're singing perfect. This worked SO WELL. The children not only followed my direction, but the sound was fantastic.<br /><br /><strong>B. </strong>To help all the children stand together, I did a little exercise with them. We practiced standing up and sitting down. I made a motion with my hands directing them to come to the edge of their seats. I then swept my arms down and up to have them stand. I told them I didn't want a bunch of pop corn on the stage.....so I had them sing Pop Corn Popping and had them "pop" up out of their chair each time we sang the words "popcorn" in the song. They loved that, and it helped them understand the difference in that and what I wanted them to do. They did amazing after that...and all eyes were on me.<br /><br /><strong>C. </strong>So, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">rehearsal</span> can sometimes get crazy trying to get everyone to listen and be reverent during it...especially the little children. So, a great teacher let me have a huge bag of stickers. I gave a bunch to each teacher and asked them to give the stickers to children who are sitting reverently and paying attention. I then announced (after I got permission from the PP) that if the children worked hard, listened, and were reverent...they would <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">receive</span> a sticker. And those who had stickers...would get a cookie from me at the end. UM....you would have thought I was giving out $100 dollar bills. It was absolutely amazing. Each child earned their sticker and got their cookie...it WAS AWESOME! Please, get permission before doing this in your primary.<br /><br /><br />Have a fun and spiritually amazing program!<br /><br />-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">thecrazychorister</span>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15408625702677823193noreply@blogger.com2