4th of July Poem and Movement Activity for Kids

This poem and movement activity is a great way for everyone to experience fireworks, even if they’re a bit afraid of the real thing!

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I always remember being a little bit scared of the fireworks on the 4th of July when I was a kid.  They always looked SO close, like they were just going to fall right down on your picnic blanket!

And all of that loud booming and cracking – definitely scary for a little kid!  Today’s activity for kids is a great way for everyone to experience fireworks, even if they’re a bit afraid of the real thing – perfect for younger kids or kids who are sensitive to loud sounds.

For another fun 4th of July activity, check out these Water and Oil Fireworks!

Pairing Movement With Poems

Using poems with movement as a learning tool is an effective way to engage learners of all ages. By incorporating physical actions into the process of reciting or reading a poem, students can enhance their understanding, retention, and enjoyment of the poem while getting important movement-based sensory input. The combination of words and movement stimulates multiple senses, reinforcing connections and promoting a deeper level of comprehension.

By using gestures, body movements, and even dance, they can bring the words to life and experience the essence of the poem on a visceral level. This approach is particularly beneficial for kinesthetic learners who thrive on hands-on activities and physical engagement.

Incorporating movement into the learning process can create a memorable and enjoyable experience for students. It breaks away from the monotony of traditional teaching methods, making learning more dynamic and interactive. The combination of poetry and movement cultivates a joyful learning environment, where students actively participate and eagerly explore the nuances of language, rhythm, and expression.

What You’ll Need:

4th of July Fireworks Poem printable

What to do:

Read the poem one time through, demonstrating each of the actions/sounds for your kids as directed (snapping fingers, clapping hands, stomping feet, and slapping knees).  Then, read it again together as a group, performing each of the actions at the same time – making the loudest fireworks sounds you can!

How to change it up:

-Make it a 4th of July parade!  Have a group of children say the poem together while marching in line, performing each of the actions/sounds along the way!
-What are some other ways of making a sound like the fireworks?  Tapping on an empty container like a drum?  Pounding fists on a table?  Get creative!

Skill Areas Addressed:

Gross motor skills, motor control, coordination, sensory integration, proprioception, fine motor skills

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Claire Heffron

Claire Heffron is co-author at The Inspired Treehouse and a pediatric occupational therapist in a preschool/primary school setting. She began her career with a bachelor's degree in magazine journalism but quickly changed course to pursue graduate studies in occupational therapy. She has been practicing therapy for 10 years in public and specialized preschool/primary school settings. She is a mom to three funny, noisy boys and relies on yoga, good food, and time outside to bring her back to center.

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