Balloon Ball Archives - Bear Paw Creek Movement props, bags and totes made in the USA. Thu, 16 Oct 2025 21:06:25 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/cropped-Bear-Paw-Creek-Full-Color-Icon-Round-Crop-100x100.png Balloon Ball Archives - Bear Paw Creek 32 32 Ghost Movement Scarf Activity for Halloween — From Will Doublestein at Bow Tie Music! https://musicandmovementproducts.com/ghost-movement-scarf-activity-for-halloween/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ghost-movement-scarf-activity-for-halloween Thu, 16 Oct 2025 21:06:25 +0000 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/?p=63539 Ghost Movement Scarf Activity for Halloween — From Will Doublestein at Bow Tie Music! We are so excited to be sharing a fun, ghost movement scarf activity for Halloween from our friend, Will Doublestein. Will is an elementary school general music teacher from Indianapolis, IN. […]

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Ghost Movement Scarf Activity for Halloween — From Will Doublestein at Bow Tie Music!

We are so excited to be sharing a fun, ghost movement scarf activity for Halloween from our friend, Will Doublestein. Will is an elementary school general music teacher from Indianapolis, IN. In 2013, he started uploading videos to a YouTube channel he named "Bow Tie Music".  At first, the channel was intended to be a way of distributing program videos to parents who couldn't attend their children's performances.

As time went on, it became a record of sorts, not only for his music programs but also of his other classroom activities. A few years later, after developing a library of resources, he realized that the videos could be a help to other music teachers needing ideas and inspiration. Eventually, his audience began to grow, and he is now able to help thousands of music teachers all around the world to reimagine music class and help their students develop a lifelong love of music.

We are so thankful for the way Will has used his platform, and we are thrilled that our movement props have been helpful tools in his classroom and that they have also been used to bring an element of fun for his students.

Keep reading to learn all about how you can use ghost props under black lights to add a spooky and fun element to your music class, and create a dancy party that your kids won't soon forget!

Dancing with Ghosts!

In this video, Dancing With Ghosts! Making dance parties SPOOKY for kids!, Will demonstrates how he uses black lights and Bear Paw Creek props to create a ghost movement scarf activity, perfect for the spooky season.

To create the "ghosts", all you need are some of our white movement scarves, our Indoor Outdoor Soft Snowball Movement Prop Set, and a 100W UV Black light like these from Amazon.com.

Will used the snowballs as ghost heads and the white scarves as the ghost's body to create a ghost perfect for a dance party! Using the black lights in your classroom creates a glowing effect for the white of the snowballs and scarves. To step it up a notch, you could use one of our 9-foot white Canopy Scarves to make a BIG glowing ghost! For the ghost head under the Canopy Scarf, you could use a big bundle of snowballs or one of our Balloon Balls.

In the video, Will is using 36-inch white movement scarves for the smaller ghosts. However, you can pick from any of the size options we have available, depending on the size ghost you would like to create with your students!

Ghost Movement Scarf Activity for Halloween — From Will Doublestein at Bow Tie Music!
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Songs to Use With the Ghost Movement Scarf Activity

We created a short Spotify playlist for you with song suggestions for your next dance party. Get creative with "Peek-A-boo Ghost" from The Laurie Berkner Band, jam out to "Ghostbusters" the remix, and get crazy with a couple of other songs that have a good dancing vibe!

To have a calmer moment in between dance sessions and let everyone catch their breath, try using Stephanie Leavell's "Blowing in the Wind". You can replace the words "my scarf" with "my ghost". For example: ...blowing in the wind, blowing in the wind, my ghost is blowing in the wind. Falling down, falling down, with a whoosh and plop!"

If you have any other song ideas that we should add to this playlist, let us know! If you end up trying this ghost movement scarf activity, be sure to tag us in any photos or videos @bearpawcreek on Facebook and Instagram. For more resources and fantastic activity ideas from Will Doublestein, you can check out his website, www.bowtiemusic.net.

Madison Stephens

Madison Stephens

Madison has been a part of BPC her whole life. As a young child, she and her siblings helped stuff stretchy bands and flip bean bags. Over the last six years she has become even more involved and is now an official BPC employee with the role of seamstress and social media manager. When she’s not working, you’ll find her spending time with family and friends, going on walks with her dog, working with horses, or cooking and baking. Madison feels honored to have the opportunity to work alongside her mom, Janet Stephens, and be involved with the family business.

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]]> Six Fun Ways to Use Bear Paw Creek Movement Props with Songs from Out There In The Wild by Jes Cleland https://musicandmovementproducts.com/six-fun-ways-to-use-bear-paw-creek-movement-props-with-songs-from-out-there-in-the-wild-by-jes-cleland/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=six-fun-ways-to-use-bear-paw-creek-movement-props-with-songs-from-out-there-in-the-wild-by-jes-cleland Sun, 04 May 2025 15:23:58 +0000 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/?p=62598 Six Fun Ways to Use Bear Paw Creek Movement Props with Songs from Out There In The Wild by Jes Cleland At Music U, we believe music comes alive when we add movement, imagination, and a little bit of magic — and Bear Paw Creek's […]

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Six Fun Ways to Use Bear Paw Creek Movement Props with Songs from Out There In The Wild by Jes Cleland

At Music U, we believe music comes alive when we add movement, imagination, and a little bit of magic — and Bear Paw Creek's movement props make it even easier!

I'm thrilled to share a few favorite ways to pair their creative music and movement products with songs from my new children's album, Out There In The Wild, coming May 9th, 2025.

Keep reading for some ideas on how to turn a simple sing-along into a full-body, full-heart experience!

🌊 Motion of the Ocean — with Bear Paw Creek's Stretchy Band or Canopy Scarf

"Motion of the Ocean" invites kids to ride the waves, and Bear Paw Creek's Stretchy Band, is the perfect tool for the journey:

  • "Waves go up and crash down" — lift the band high, then swoop it down low.
  • "The tide comes in and goes out" — move it forward and back with flowing, gentle movements.
  • "Currents rip from side to side" — sway the band left and right with fun bursts of energy.

Or, try using the Blue Canopy Scarf for a fun variation. The canopy scarf is a favorite in my classroom and can give the same song and movements a brand-new experience. You might even invite a few at a time to stand under the scarf and imagine being deep in the ocean watching motion above!

☔ Raindrops Falling on Me — Two props, one joyful song!

Spring showers feel extra magical with another one of Bear Paw Creek's movement props, Wrist Streamers, in hand. As you sing "Raindrops Falling on Me," invite children to gently place their streamers on the body parts mentioned in the song—head, shoulders, knees, toes, eyelashes, and nose—just like raindrops falling from the sky.

It's a delightful way to support body awareness while reinforcing the rhythm and flow of the music.

As a variation, try Individual Creative Movement Chiffon Scarves! Kiddos love transforming them into imaginary puddles—spreading them across the floor and leaping in with squeals of joy. It's pure rainy-day magic, no umbrellas required.

🎈 Five Roly-Polies — with Bear Paw Creek's Balloon Ball

"Five Roly-Polies" is all about rolling, and Bear Paw Creek's Balloon Ball makes it extra interactive!

  • Roll the ball across the group circle during every "roll, roly-poly" refrain — giving kids a chance to work on gentle pushes, teamwork, and timing.
  • Watch the smiles grow as they anticipate the ball coming to them!

 

Six Fun Ways to Use Bear Paw Creek Movement Props with Songs from Out There In The Wild by Jes Cleland
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🐞 Get Out Beetle — with Bear Paw Creek's Balloon Ball

You can keep the fun going with "Get Out Beetle!".

Pass the Balloon Ball around the circle during the verses, and toss it in the air when you get to the big "Get Out Be-Be-Be-Beetle!" shout! Children can do this with partners, small groups, or even a big circle. It's a simple but exciting way to encourage listening skills, quick reactions, and group connection.

To extend the experience, "Get Out Beetle!" also comes with a picture book, interactive digital book, and a teaching guide full of extension activities to bring the story and song to life in even more ways.

🩵 Inspiring Kids to Explore and Fall in Love with Music

At Music U, we love seeing how Bear Paw Creek's beautifully made props can turn a musical moment into an unforgettable memory. Whether you're singing songs from Out There In The Wild at home, in a classroom, or outside under the sky, these props help kids move, explore, and fall in love with music again and again.

Out There In The Wild by Jes Cleland is available on May 9th, wherever you stream music — we can't wait for you to sing, dance, and explore along with us! To check out the different resources Music U has available along with ways to follow along to stay up to date, click here. To check out all of Bear Paw Creek's movement props, click here.

Stay tuned for more exciting things this week as we celebrate the release of Out There in The Wild, including a fun giveaway!

Ready to sing, dance, and play?

Four Songs from Out There in The Wild by Jes Cleland to use with Bear Paw Creek movement Props
Motion in the Ocean Song to Use with Bear Paw Creek Stretchy Band Best Stretchy Band Songs for Teachers Music Therapists and Parents
Raindrops Falling On Me Songs for Kids Best Scarf Songs Bear Paw Creek Creative Movement Scarf Activities
Bear Paw Creek Balloon Ball Songs Jes Cleland Childrens Musician Best Songs for Creative Movement
Bear Paw Creek Music and Movement Props Best Songs for Movement Props Activity Ideas for Teachers Music Thearpists
Jes Cleland

Jes Cleland

For over a decade, I've helped young musicians find their voice through Music U, the teaching studio I founded in 2013. What began as a small preschool music class — filled with singing, movement, and playful discovery — has grown into a thriving community of learners, families, and educators across Nashville.

At Music U, my teaching style is rooted in creativity, connection, and joy. I believe that music is a natural language for young children, and my classes focus on nurturing that through hands-on activities, imaginative play, and lots of opportunities for self-expression. I respect children's ability to engage deeply with music and believe they deserve quality songs and meaningful experiences. In my classes, we move with scarves, explore rhythms, make up silly songs, and dive into a wide range of musical genres — from jazz to rockabilly to Celtic and Latin music — helping students build musical skills and a lifelong appreciation for learning.

As a songwriter and recording artist, I create music that invites children into a world of wonder and storytelling. My upcoming album, Out There In The Wild (releasing this May), celebrates playful melodies, big feelings, and the magic of everyday adventures. I'm also the author of Get Out, Beetle!, a whimsical children's book that blends music and hilarious characters to inspire curiosity and laughter.

Whether through a song, a story, or a lesson, the goal is always to spark confidence, creativity, and a genuine love for music.

Follow along on Instagram, Facebook and my Website for updates on new music, books, and more!

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]]> Top 3 Movement Props with Activity Ideas for Music and Movement Month https://musicandmovementproducts.com/top-three-movement-props-activity-ideas-for-music-and-movement-month/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=top-three-movement-props-activity-ideas-for-music-and-movement-month https://musicandmovementproducts.com/top-three-movement-props-activity-ideas-for-music-and-movement-month/#comments Mon, 31 Mar 2025 22:05:41 +0000 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/?p=62478 Top 3 Movement Props with Activity Ideas for Music and Movement Month For the last two years, Bear Paw Creek and Sandra Hendrickson from Sing Play Create have celebrated Music and Movement Month in April. While this isn't a nationally recognized event, we love to […]

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Top 3 Movement Props with Activity Ideas for Music and Movement Month

For the last two years, Bear Paw Creek and Sandra Hendrickson from Sing Play Create have celebrated Music and Movement Month in April. While this isn't a nationally recognized event, we love to have a month dedicated to highlighting music and movement and all of its amazing benefits. This year, we're kicking it off by sharing our top 3 movement props with activity ideas for each one.

It is hard to pick a top 3 since we love all of our music and movement props and we know you do too. However, the three we are highlighting today have been among our best sellers since the very beginning of Bear Paw Creek in early 2000.

Keep reading to find out our top 3 movement props along with activity ideas for each one that you can use during this year's music and movement month (and year-round too!). Plus, find out how we will be celebrating all month long and how you can join in on the fun.

Movement Prop #1: Stretchy Band

Our Stretchy Bands have been without a doubt our best selling product since the very beginning. So it was a no brainer to include this prop in our top 3 movement props for music and movement month. Our brightly colored Stretchy Bands are made with latex or latex free tubing covered with fabric and include a hook and loop velcro closure.

They are great for practicing numerous goal areas and different skills such as: making shapes, rhythm, listening skills, color recognition, teamwork, and so much more. With five different sizes available, Stretchy Bands can be used in one-on-one settings, small groups, and during large group activities.

The activities you can do with the Stretchy Band are endless and we continue to be inspired by all of our amazing customers who share their ideas with us on Instagram and Facebook.

Here are some song and activity ideas to use with Bear Paw Creek's Stretchy Band:

Top 3 Movement Props with Activity Ideas for Music and Movement Month
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Movement Prop #2: Streamers

Our hoop and wrist streamers have also been one of our top best selling creative movement props since early 2000. Streamers are great fun for dynamic movement activities and dance. Chiffon scarves or vibrant satin ribbons flow 24" off of either a 4 1/2" plastic hoop or fabric wrist scrunchie. The Streamers come in either rainbow or primary colors. You can choose between sets of 6 which come in a drawstring storage bag or, purchase streamers individually to fit your needs.

The fabric wrist scrunchie streamer was an idea from Kathy Schumacher MT-BC at www.TunefulTeaching.com. They are wonderful as you can put them on your wrist, elbows, arms, or even ankles to have your hands free for other movement activities. She discovered this need for those with different abilities who are not able to grasp items. With the ability to put them on your wrist, individuals can still participate in group settings since they can join in on the movements without having to hold on to a prop.

Here are some song and activity ideas to use with Bear Paw Creek's creative movement Streamers:

Movement Prop #3: Balloon Ball

Last but certainly not least in the list of top 3 movement props for music and movement month is the Balloon Ball. The fabric Balloon Ball cover is made out of cotton/poly broadcloth in bright rainbow colors (we have specialty balloon balls as well). You place a balloon through the slit at the bottom, blow it up, tie it off, tuck in the tail, and the music and movement fun begins!

This is a great way for little ones to learn how to catch and throw as it is so light weight. With the lightness and softness of the Balloon Ball, it's great to kick around without worrying about somebody getting hurt. All balloons come with warnings about the danger of choking. With the fabric covering the balloon, it makes it safer to play with and eliminates the worry of balloon pieces flying everywhere if it pops. They are also great to use with parachutes or our nine foot canopy scarves. Put it on top and watch it bounce up and down as you move the parachute or scarf!

Here are some song and activity ideas to use with Bear Paw Creek's Balloon Balls:

Stay Tuned for More Music and Movement Month Celebration!

To keep up with all of the different ways we are celebrating Music and Movement Month this year and different ways you can join in, be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

To check out all of our other products not listed in the top 3 movement props, click here.

We are thrilled to have you follow along and hopefully join in on the celebration with us!

Madison Stephens

Madison Stephens

Madison has been a part of BPC her whole life. As a young child, she and her siblings helped stuff stretchy bands and flip bean bags. Over the last six years she has become even more involved and is now an official BPC employee with the role of seamstress and social media manager. When she’s not working, you’ll find her spending time with family and friends, going on walks with her dog, working with horses, or cooking and baking. Madison feels honored to have the opportunity to work alongside her mom, Janet Stephens, and be involved with the family business.

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]]> https://musicandmovementproducts.com/top-three-movement-props-activity-ideas-for-music-and-movement-month/feed/ 2 Our Story — The How and Why Bear Paw Creek Began https://musicandmovementproducts.com/our-story-the-how-and-why-bear-paw-creek-began-creative-music-and-movement-props-2/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=our-story-the-how-and-why-bear-paw-creek-began-creative-music-and-movement-props-2 Sun, 26 Jan 2025 18:04:42 +0000 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/?p=62274 Our Story — The How and Why Bear Paw Creek Began This January marks 25 years in business for Bear Paw Creek, this is a big milestone for us and we are extremely grateful to everyone who has supported us along the way. We have been […]

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Our Story — The How and Why Bear Paw Creek Began

This January marks 25 years in business for Bear Paw Creek, this is a big milestone for us and we are extremely grateful to everyone who has supported us along the way.

We have been celebrating all month long by sharing some behind the scenes, a 25% off flash sale, and still have something extra fun planned for the end of the month. We also wanted to share a little bit about the how and why Bear Paw Creek was started. For those who have been following us for a long time, this story may already be familiar to you, but we have had a lot of growth over the last several years. Including more followers on social media and our blog, which makes this the perfect time to do a retelling of our story.

Keep reading to learn about the start of our business (before we were named Bear Paw Creek!), growth over the years, how our products are beneficial, and our goals moving forward.

The Start of Bear Paw Creek's Music and Movement Props

In January of 2000, sisters Janet Stephens and Kathy Schumacher MT-BC came together along with Janet's husband, Christopher Stephens, to create a business that was then called Props & Bags, Etc. With Janet looking to create an income from home and Kathy looking for someone to create products to meet a need in the music therapy community, they meshed their passion and ideas together to create products that would serve the music and movement community for years to come.

With Christopher's innovative mind, Janet's designing and sewing skills, and Kathy's experience in music therapy and knowledge of what that community needed, they introduced the creation of a unique line of movement props along with solutions for organizing and transporting them.

The Props & Bags, Etc. 2000-2001 catalog contained: stretchy bands, bean bags, streamers, tote bags, and instrument cases.

Our Story — The How and Why Bear Paw Creek Began
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Our Development and Growth Throughout the Years

In 2001, Bear Paw Creek picked up their first wholesale customer, West Music, who we continue to work with to this day! The movement props continued to grow in popularity which encouraged them to continue going and also create more props to add to the product line. In 2008, the brand name was changed to Bear Paw Creek.

Fast forward to 2012, Janet had the opportunity to take a course on building websites with WordPress. With this knowledge added to her "tool belt", she was able to create a new website to better offer Bear Paw Creek's products to the public.

The new website allowed them to open up and quickly expand the business's retail market as well as connect with customers on a one to one level through emails, blog posts, and in later years, social media. Bear Paw Creek continues to expand and grow, reaching more retail customers, along with a growing list of resellers, stateside and internationally.

In recent years I, Madison Stephens (Christopher and Janet's daughter), have taken over the social media marketing for Bear Paw Creek. This opened up a whole other avenue of connection with our customers.

Seeing videos of stretchy bands, scarves, streamers, bean bags, and all of our other creative movement props being used in countries all around the world by people of different ages and abilities is both mind blowing and extremely humbling. It is an honor to be a part of this business my parents and aunt started and the impact it has.
Bear Paw Creek School Of Musical HeartBeats Australia Stretchy Band in Music and Movement Activity
Nancy Kopman Music With Nancy Kopman Shake Shake Shake with Bear Paw Creek Creative Movement Scarves
Pixie Pods Kids New York United States Music Classes for Kids Bear Paw Creek DiscoverDance Hoop Ribbon Rainbow Streamers
Bear Paw Creek Stretchy Band Creative Music and Movement Props for Music Therapists Teacher Jacqueline Chow Singapore Music Therapist

We have learned so much and have been inspired by all of you sharing your movement activity ideas on social media and how you use our movement props with your children, students, and patients. It has also led to some new product ideas, wonderful collaborations, and big growth for our business. If you aren't already connected with us on Facebook and Instagram, please give us a follow! And keep tagging us in your videos and pictures, it truly is one of our favorite things to see our products in use.

Bear Paw Creek: Retailer, Wholesaler, and Manufacture of Handmade in the USA Movement Props

Something that not everyone knows about Bear Paw Creek is that, for the last 25 years we have been the manufacturer, retailer, and wholesaler for our company. People are sometimes shocked to hear that our movement props are handmade by us in Missouri, USA!

When we first began in 2000, our target audience was music therapists. The music therapy community is wonderful and has been huge supporters of Bear Paw Creek. We are extremely grateful for them and all of the important work that they do! Over the years as our product was being purchased and shipped all around the world, we realized that music therapists are not the only ones that have a need for these props.

Our music and movement props continue to be used by music therapists, but are also being used by music teachers, activity directors, recreational therapists, parents, dance instructors, grandparents, physical therapists, early childhood educators, special education teachers, occupational therapists, rehabilitation specialists, and so many more.

All of these amazing people combine our props with music to help their patients target specific goal areas, work on a variety of skills, and sometimes, to just have fun with music and movement. A few of the skills movement props help target are:

  • Physical development: Props can help with coordination, balance, and gross motor skills.
  • Cognitive development: Props can help with spatial awareness, teamwork, and understanding of locomotor and non-locomotor movements.
  • Creative expression: Props can help with creativity and musicality.
  • Social-emotional development: Props can help with social-emotional development.
  • Strength and flexibility: Props can help with strength, mobility, and flexibility by encouraging movement.

A Thank you for Your Support and Our Goals Moving Forward

We cannot say thank you enough to all of our loyal supporters for the last 25 years. Bear Paw Creek would not be the successful business that it is without all of you trusting us to provide high-quality made in the USA movement props, sharing about them with friends, using them with your children and patients, sharing your music and movement activity ideas on blogs and social media, and coming back again and again to purchase our products.

Bear Paw Creek is honored to have the opportunity to make a small impact in the world with what we provide. But it's all because of our amazing community of people all around the world that our products have been as successful as they are.

Looking back on the last 25 years there has definitely been a lot of change and growth. However, our core values have remained and will continue to remain the same: commitment to the people who use our products, and enthusiasm for the manner in which our customers improve the lives of others.

It is our goal to continue to equip teachers, therapists, and parents as they seek to enrich the lives of others through creative movement products and music. We understand the importance of music and movement for developing healthy minds and bodies of all ages and are honored to have your trust and support as we continue to create high-quality movement props.

Here's to the next 25 years!

Madison Stephens

Madison Stephens

Madison has been a part of BPC her whole life. As a young child, she and her siblings helped stuff stretchy bands and flip bean bags. Over the last six years she has become even more involved and is now an official BPC employee with the role of seamstress and social media manager. When she’s not working, you’ll find her spending time with family and friends, going on walks with her dog, working with horses, or cooking and baking. Madison feels honored to have the opportunity to work alongside her mom, Janet Stephens, and be involved with the family business.

The post Our Story — The How and Why Bear Paw Creek Began appeared first on Bear Paw Creek.

]]> Music and Movement Bundle Giveaway — Helpful Harmonies & Bear Paw Creek https://musicandmovementproducts.com/music-and-movement-bundle-giveaway-helpful-harmonies-bear-paw-creek/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=music-and-movement-bundle-giveaway-helpful-harmonies-bear-paw-creek Tue, 19 Dec 2023 23:54:36 +0000 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/?p=60846 Music and Movement Bundle Giveaway — Helpful Harmonies & Bear Paw Creek With the holidays almost upon us, we would like to give back to all of our loyal customers and friends with a music and movement bundle GIVEAWAY! We have collaborated with Haleigh from […]

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Music and Movement Bundle Giveaway — Helpful Harmonies & Bear Paw Creek

With the holidays almost upon us, we would like to give back to all of our loyal customers and friends with a music and movement bundle GIVEAWAY! We have collaborated with Haleigh from Helpful Harmonies Music Therapy to put together a prize package with some of your music and movement essentials.

From Balloon Balls, to Connect-A-Stretchy Bands, to instruments, you don't want to miss out on this giveaway. Enter to win it for yourself or, enter to win to gift it to someone you love and think would enjoy it.

Keep reading to learn more about Helpful Harmonies and for more details on the music and movement bundle you could have the chance to win!

Bear Paw Creek Helpful Harmonies Music and Movement Bundle Holiday Giveaway

About Helpful Harmonies Music Therapy

First, a little bit more about our friend and partner in this giveaway. Haleigh Beaird is a wife, mom, Board Certified Music Therapist (#13057), and the owner of Helpful Harmonies Music Therapy based in Texas.

She has her Masters of Music Therapy from Texas Woman’s University, and a Bachelor’s in Music Therapy from Texas Woman’s University where she completed her 1,500-hour internship with Texas Health and Human Services at the Denton State Supported Living Center working with residents with intellectual disabilities.

Haleigh established Helpful Harmonies in 2022 to assist children with disabilities, adolescents needing mental health support, parents with young children in the community, and surrounding school district's special education programs.

Inclusion. Accessibility. Superior Support.

Helpful Harmonies Music Therapy was created with the intent that inclusion always comes first. For that reason, we are an affirming practice with Ally-trained therapists that believe in equity of services, accessibility of music therapy, and sustainable professional practices. Helpful Harmonies also promotes autonomy for all of their clients, which is the level of support that sets them apart from other practices.

Our mission is to create an inclusive environment for populations seeking accessible therapy and provide them with superior support through the entire therapeutic process.

To learn more about Haleigh and her passion for Music Therapy, click here. You can check out all that Helpful Harmonies has to offer here as well as some free resources she has available. Be sure to also follow Helpful Harmonies on Facebook and Instagram for inspiration, more free resources, activity ideas and more. Keep reading below for all the details on our music and movement bundle giveaway!

Music and Movement Bundle Giveaway — Helpful Harmonies Music Therapy and Bear Paw Creek
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Music and Movement Bundle Giveaway

And now, for the details you have been waiting for! Bear Paw Creek and Helpful Harmonies Music Therapy is giving away:

1. Music with Mar. Student Manipulative Deluxe Kit with Building Brains With Music Book

This kit contains one Rainbow Balloon Ball, two Bean Bags, a Kazoo, pair of Rhythm Sticks, a Lollipop Drum, Egg Shaker, Connect-A-Stretchy Band, two 25" movement Scarves, and one Small Play Parachute. It comes with a premium shoulder bag for easy storage! Also included is the amazing book by Maryann "Mar" Harman.

Building Brains with Music: A must have guide on how to use music to enhance brain development, is an incredible book that will teach you about the importance and benefits of music in early childhood. You will also receive access to 27 of Mar's digital songs.

2. 6 pack Primary Wrist Chiffon Streamers

Our creative movement streamers have been one of our top selling creative movement props since the beginning. These Primary Chiffon Wrist Streamers  are perfect for those who have the ability to grasp objects but are also inclusive to those who struggle with that task. The wrist option allows you to place them on an individuals wrists, allowing them to participate without having to struggle with grasping an object. While the colors are bright and fun, the chiffon is slightly less stimulating than the ribbon streamers since they are softer and "flow" through the air smoothly.

3. Theraputty with Miniature Items for Sensory Play

Our Theraputty set is a newer product and is sure to be a hit in your classroom or at home with your kids. While it looks like simply playing, there is so much more going on from strengthening hands and fingers, to sensorimotor development, along with the development of find motor skills.

4. Tammy the Troll: A Dance in the Forest — Book by Once Upon A Dance

Kids will love dancing along with Tammy, Ballerina Konora, and their new friends in this sweet adventure that’s perfect for preschool and kindergarten  kids and classrooms. Readers are invited to stretch, spin, jump and more as they act out the journey to find Tammy. Kids are invited to use a creative movement scarf as a backpack, a paddle, butterfly wings, a towel, and a pillow to enhance the fun and explore the movements, dance fundamentals, and early-learning concepts.

How to Enter to Win the Music and Movement Bundle

To enter for you chance to win this music and movement bundle, head on over to our Instagram or Facebook post (or both for even more entries).

All you have to do is make sure you're following us @bearpawcreek and @helpfulharmoniesmt, like the post, and comment your favorite holiday tradition! One comment = one entry. Be sure to read the caption for bonus entry options too.

Click here to enter on Facebook. (Just go to the pinned post on our profile)

Click here to enter on Instagram. 

This giveaway is open to the USA only and ends on Saturday, December 23 at 11:00 am CST. One winner will be drawn and contacted the same day. I also want to add that Bear Paw Creek will be messaging the winner directly and will not require any payment information. So, if anyone that looks suspiciously like us or Helpful Harmonies messages or tags you in a comment and it doesn't look legit, please ignore it! Scams are always bad this time of year and we don't want anyone to get caught in one.

Good luck to everyone entering our giveaway and as always, thank you for your continued support. We hope everyone has a very Happy Holiday!

Madison Stephens

Madison Stephens

Madison has been a part of BPC her whole life. As a young child, she and her siblings helped stuff stretchy bands and flip bean bags. Over the last six years she has become even more involved and is now an official BPC employee with the role of seamstress and social media manager. When she’s not working, you’ll find her spending time with family and friends, going on walks with her dog, working with horses, or cooking and baking. Madison feels honored to have the opportunity to work alongside her mom, Janet Stephens, and be involved with the family business.

The post Music and Movement Bundle Giveaway — Helpful Harmonies & Bear Paw Creek appeared first on Bear Paw Creek.

]]> “Resilient Child” by Miss Julieann — Album Release Celebration! https://musicandmovementproducts.com/resilient-child-by-miss-julieann-album-release-celebration/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=resilient-child-by-miss-julieann-album-release-celebration Fri, 01 Sep 2023 21:15:17 +0000 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/?p=60468 "Resilient Child" by Miss Julieann — Album Release Celebration! We are so excited to be partnering with award winning children's musician and therapist, Miss Julieann, to celebrate her brand new album Resilient Child. The album was created to teach resilience skills to children and will […]

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"Resilient Child" by Miss Julieann — Album Release Celebration!

We are so excited to be partnering with award winning children's musician and therapist, Miss Julieann, to celebrate her brand new album Resilient Child. The album was created to teach resilience skills to children and will be available on all downloadable platforms, September 22, 2023

The buoyant album, characterized as, “Disney meets Nickel Creek”, proves that heady concepts can become an irrepressible, musical rumpus in the right hands. Resilient Child, features songs about developing support systems, coping skills, emotional expression, and self-worth by a professional music therapist.

To celebrate the release of Resilient Child, Miss Julieann is doing weekly giveaways leading up to the day the album comes out. We are thrilled to be included in the very first giveaway! Keep reading to get details on where you can enter and to learn more about Miss Julieann and her new album.

About Miss Julieann

Julieann Hartley, MT-BC, NMT, and NTP is a board certified music therapist, nature educator, illustrator and children's musician. After obtaining degrees in both music therapy and psychology, she graduated from Anna Maria College as valedictorian. After many years working as a community music therapist, she  released her first kids album, Therapeutic Songs for Kids, which won a 2019 Parents' Choice award. Resilient Child is her second album and is on track to be just as popular and well-loved as her first.

She is currently recovering from a neurological infection, and focusing on putting together content for other therapists, teachers and parents to be able to help children develop the resilience skills they need to overcome life's inevitable challenges. Besides music, she has an interest in hiking (she completed the Appalachian Trail in 2015), rock climbing and foraging. She is passionate about introducing children to the wonders of nature and wild foods and in addition to doing concerts with kids, she loves to run workshops on safely foraging for wild foods, and acorn processing with kids.

 Why Miss Julieann's Therapeutic Songs for Kids?

"As a music therapist, who works with kids and adults with special needs all day, I needed music that could support children with motor, speech, cognitive, emotional and behavioral needs. I had a hard time finding songs that were easy for my clients to sing, easy for their parents to remember and were easy to individualize to meet their development goals. So, I wrote them. They have been designed specifically to engage ALL children and provide opportunities for interaction, despite their developmental needs. I also designed each song to have the ability to be adapted to meet a variety of motor, speech, emotional, behavioral goals. After years of parents, teachers and therapists asking for a CD with all my most useful songs, I finally made one and I'm ready to show the community how to use music to support our children!" - Julieann Hartley, Board Certified Music Therapist

Check out the awesome album release celebration we are participating-on with with Miss Julieann!
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How to Enter the Bear Paw Creek and Miss Julieann Giveaway

By entering the giveaway you could have the chance to win a Listen Learn Music & Movement Prop Set, which includes:

To enter for your chance to win, head over to our Instagram page and read the captions for the details! The giveaway ends Tuesday, September 5th at midnight! The winner will be announced on Instagram stories the next day (on Wednesday) and Miss Julieann will contact the winner through her account (@missjulieannmusic) via DMs.

Click here to go to the giveaway post! 

In addition to the giveaway, you can get a sneak peak at the Resilient Child album by listening to the newly released single titled, "I Am Enough". Be sure to follow Miss Julieann on Instagram to stay up to date on all of the other fun giveaways she has planned and to be notified when Resilient Child is available for download.

Madison Stephens

Madison Stephens

Madison has been a part of BPC her whole life. As a young child, she and her siblings helped stuff stretchy bands and flip bean bags. Over the last six years she has become even more involved and is now an official BPC employee with the role of seamstress and social media manager. When she’s not working, you’ll find her spending time with family and friends, going on walks with her dog, working with horses, or cooking and baking. Madison feels honored to have the opportunity to work alongside her mom, Janet Stephens, and be involved with the family business.

The post “Resilient Child” by Miss Julieann — Album Release Celebration! appeared first on Bear Paw Creek.

]]> Back to School Giveaway — Worth Over $900! https://musicandmovementproducts.com/back-to-school-giveaway-music-movement-products-for-teachers-therapists-parents-early-childhood-educators/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=back-to-school-giveaway-music-movement-products-for-teachers-therapists-parents-early-childhood-educators Sat, 22 Jul 2023 14:43:46 +0000 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/?p=60238 Annual Back To School Giveaway — Worth Over $900! It's time for our annual back to school giveaway with a prize package FULL of music and movement resources! At Bear Paw Creek, we love to do giveaways. They are a fun way to give back […]

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Annual Back To School Giveaway — Worth Over $900!

It's time for our annual back to school giveaway with a prize package FULL of music and movement resources! At Bear Paw Creek, we love to do giveaways. They are a fun way to give back to all of you and to show our appreciation for your continued support. We always look forward to our big annual back to school giveaway a this year we have asked several of our friends to join in. Not only are we giving away some of our best selling creative movement props, we also have some children's books, some awesome music, miniature items, and more that have been generously donated!

On top of that, we are also opening up this year's back to school giveaway to not only our USA followers, but to all of our international followers as well. Keep reading to get all the details on what's included in the giveaway and find out how to enter. This is a giveaway you are not going to want to miss!

Bear Paw Creek Back to School Giveaway 2023 Best Music and Movement Props for Music Therapists Teachers Educators and Parents

Everything Included in the Back to School Giveaway

Our creative movement props would not be as successful or as beneficial as they are without combining them with music, books, manipluatives and more. We are so excited to be able to include some of our close friends and fellow businesses in this giveaway. We love each person listed below and want to say a big thank you to all of them for joining this years back to school giveaway.

One of the very first books given to me when I was a baby was a copy of I'm A Little Teapot, illustrated by Iza Trapani (which I still have!). My mom and I are big fans of her work and to say we were excited when she agreed to participate in our back to school giveaway is an understatement. Iza Trapani was born in Poland and immigrated to American at seven years old. Upon arriving to America, she was given a large collection of Mother Goose nursery rhymes. These nursery rhymes are what helped her learn to speak English and what inspired her to become an author and illustrator. Now, her first book The Itsy Bitsy Spider has sold over 2.5 million copies and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star has sold over 1.3 million copies. Her illustrations are beautiful and nursery rhymes always manage to keep children engaged. Iza has generously donated SIGNED COPIES of three of her books:

  • Old MacDonal Had a...Zoo?
  • Froggie Went A-Courtin'
  • Baa Baa Black Sheep

Nancy Kopman is an Early Childhood Educator, recording artist, performer and music curriculum builder. Her "Music With a Purpose" is used by educators, therapists, caregivers and families worldwide. Nancy's songs and classes (both in-person and online) focus on movement, connection and learning together while having fun. We have loved connecting with Nancy this year and are very excited for you to have the chance to win her music! Her songs fit so well with many of our music and movement props. You can also check out her Patreon community here. Nancy is generously donating a six pack of CD's from her music collection:

  • "I Am A Tree" album
  • "Senses" album
  • "Shadow" album
  • "The Seasons" album
  • "Wonderful You" album
  • "I Know I'll Grow...." album

Music for Kiddos was created by Stephanie Leavell MT-BC and is dedicated to providing high-quality children's music resources for music therapists, music educators, and parents. Not only does Stephanie write truly amazing music, she also has continuing education courses, a podcast, and offers an online resource membership community. On top of all that, she hosts an online conference each year created exclusively for music therapists and music educators who work with kids. Stephanie has generously donated these items to our back to school giveaway:

Rachelle is a Speech-Language Pathologist and started Speech Tree Co in December of 2018. She had the idea to make mini object kits targeting speech and language goals while working as a pediatric SLP. After using the mini items with her students, she quickly realized just how much more engaging the mini toys were than traditional articulation flashcards. As longtime fans of anything miniature, we are beyond excited to connect with Rachelle and share her resources with all of you. You can enter for the chance to win two themed units from Speech Tree Co:

  • Oceans Unit
  • Sports Unit

We have been following Rhythm and Strings Music Therapy since fall of 2022 when Marie released her singable book, Where Do You Sleep? She has been marketing the book in such a fun way using different miniature items, you can check it out by visiting their Instagram or Facebook page. Marie is a Neurologic music therapist in Southern Maine, is a children's book author, and provides resources with a rhythm. She is adding several items to the giveaway including:

DiscoverDance is a dance community dedicated to learning, creating, and educating the early years. In 2018, DiscoverDance partnered with Bear Paw Creek to create the DiscoverDance Music and Movement Prop Collection. Incorporating creative movement props with the DiscoverDance conceptual explorations enhances the early childhood learning experience. Andrea Trench from DiscoverDance is donating:

Patina Jackson is a board certified music therapist and is the creator and owner of Music Therapy Joy. She offers many amazing resources from engaging songs with high-quality, visual aids, to forms for data, planning, organization and evaluations. She is donating a bundle includes recordings for 10 songs that support social emotional learning for kids and teens! PLUS a 98-page PDF packed with chord sheets, intervention ideas, worksheets, printable visuals, and slide presentation links (for classroom screens, tablets, virtual sessions and more)! On top of all that, Patina has also been releasing some wonderful music! You can check out her Spotify here. Enter for your chance to win the:

This year for Bear Paw Creek's contribution, we are giving away a little bit of everything! Scarves, Stretchy Bands, and our newest movement prop, the Small Play Parachute. We are also adding Maryann "Mar" Harman's new book to the giveaway along with Miss Carole's CD's. Be sure to check out both of their websites and social media pages. Here is everything you could win from us:

Click Here to Enter our BIG Annual Back to School Giveaway - Worth Over $900!
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How To Enter for Your Chance to Win the Giveaway

After sharing that list of all of the amazing music and movement resources included in this years back to school giveaway you're probably thinking, "How do I enter ASAP!?".

All you have to do is head on over to either Instagram or Facebook, like the post, then comment and tag some friends. Tip: If you enter on both Facebook and Instagram, you'll have even more chances to win.

We understand that some of you may not be on social media and want to make sure you still have a chance to enter. If you are not on social media, go ahead and click here! Enter your email to make sure you are subscribed to our mailing list and you will be entered in as well.

Bear Paw Creek Back to School Giveaway Top Resources for Teaching Music and Movement Early Childhood Development Tools Parents Teachers Best Music Therapy Props Childrens Book

Again, we want to say a huge thank you to all of our good friends for donating their products and resources to this giveaway. We are so excited to kick off the school year in this fun way. Be sure to stay tuned as we will be announcing our back to school sale information soon!

Madison Stephens

Madison Stephens

Madison has been a part of BPC her whole life. As a young child, she and her siblings helped stuff stretchy bands and flip bean bags. Over the last six years she has become even more involved and is now an official BPC employee with the role of seamstress and social media manager. When she’s not working, you’ll find her spending time with family and friends, going on walks with her dog, working with horses, or cooking and baking. Madison feels honored to have the opportunity to work alongside her mom, Janet Stephens, and be involved with the family business.

The post Back to School Giveaway — Worth Over $900! appeared first on Bear Paw Creek.

]]> Music and Movement Month 2023 Recap https://musicandmovementproducts.com/music-and-movement-month-2023-recap-movement-activities-early-childhood-education-teaching-tools/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=music-and-movement-month-2023-recap-movement-activities-early-childhood-education-teaching-tools Mon, 01 May 2023 11:00:43 +0000 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/?p=59946 Music and Movement Month 2023 Recap It's hard to believe that April is already over and that our Music and Movement Month celebration has come to an end. We had so much fun highlighting music and movement activities, resources, movement props, and more over the […]

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Music and Movement Month 2023 Recap

It's hard to believe that April is already over and that our Music and Movement Month celebration has come to an end. We had so much fun highlighting music and movement activities, resources, movement props, and more over the last month with Sandra from Sing Play Create. And, if you know us at Bear Paw Creek, you know that we LOVE giveaways. Getting to pull one together with Sandra worth over $150.00 to celebrate and give someone the opportunity to incorporate music and movement into their lives was wonderful.

With over 500 entries and hundreds more bonus entries, your response to the giveaway was fantastic! A big thank you to everyone that entered and participated in the giveaway.

Sandra has so many amazing music and movement activities on her website and TPT store. On top of that, she created several more over the last month just for our celebration! Just in case you missed them, you can find all of the resources linked below.

8 Scarf and Ribbon Movement Activities

The first of several movement activities shared by Sandra was, 8 Scarf and Ribbon Activities. Not only are there eight activities, but she also gives you the details on how to do them. Plus, there are two songs for scarves and ribbons you can use too! Below you will find the time stamps for the YouTube video which clearly demonstrates each activity.

  • INTRO: 00:00-2:10
  • 2:10-SECTION 1: Scarf and Ribbon Warm Up Activity
  • 6:55-SECTION 2: Scarf Activity Song
  • 11:05-SECTION 3: Teach High and Low
  • 14:12-SECTION 4: Loud and Soft
  • 18:10-SECTION 5: Expression and Social Activity
  • 24:34-SECTION 6: Tempo Game
  • 30:15-SECTION 7: Vocal Explorations
  • 32:37-SECTION 8: Teach Form (Vivaldi's Spring Concerto)

10 Bean Bag Activities for Music and Movement

Bean Bag activities are just what you need if you’re looking to keep engagement high. In this blog post, Sandra shares interactive games and activities that have students singing, playing, and moving using our Bean Bags. Games are a great way to teach children because often, children don't even know they are learning, they're just busy having fun!

  • 1:01 Easy Warm UP Bean Bag Game
  • 2:00 Grizzly Bear Bean Bag Game
  • 5:08 Introduce and Teach How to Play with Bean Bags “Hello Song” Freebie
  • 5:57 Upper Elementary Bean Bag Games for Music Class Learning and Assessment
  • 7:19 Old Mac Donald Bean Bag Game
  • 10:10 The Farmer in the Dell Bean Bag Game
  • 12:19 Snail Snail Kodaly Song Bean Bag Game
  • 14:35 Doggie, Doggie Where’s Your Bone Bean Bag Game
  • 16:30 Vocal Warmups with Bean Bags
  • 18:10 Movement Activities with Bean Bags
  • 19:50 Songs with Bean Bags
  • 21:00 Head Shoulders Knees and Toes
  • 21:54 There’s a Chocolate Chip Cookie on My Head Sing Along
  • 24:00 Bean Bag Activities for Transitions, Games, Anytime!

Best Parachute Movement Actvities for Music Class

Did you know that parachute songs, games, and movement activities can teach musical and movement concepts? And that they give students opportunities to explore through creativity and improvisation?  And yes, they make a great movement break for fitness. They also help with SEL (Social Emotional Learning), social skills, beat, and form activities as well as singing.

In this blog post, Sandra shared some fun parachute activities that you can use in music class, circle time, music therapy session, or during at-home play. Click here to check out the blog post and learn about all of the different parachute activities, plus get a creative movement song made specifically for play parachutes! You can also watch the YouTube video HERE.

Check out our Small Play Parachute featured in the video here.

Fun Balloon Ball Music and Movement Activities

Balloon Balls are a great movement prop to add to your home, classroom, or clinic. This is a great music therapy tool for little ones to learn how to catch and throw as it is so light weight. With the lightness and softness of this ball, it’s great to kick around without worrying about somebody getting hurt. Sandra shared several different Balloon Ball movement activities including steady beat activities, rhythm games, and songs!

To read the full blog post, click here. And, to check out the YouTube video demonstrating the activities, click here!

You can also check out her other blog post: 10 Ways to Use Balls in the Music Classroom

Check out all of the fun Balloon Ball variations from us at Bear Paw Creek here! You can choose from a variety of patterns and designs. From the classic rainbow, to a pumpkin, apple, galaxy theme, floral, and more.

Thank You for Celebrating Music and Movement Month!

We absolutely loved celebrating Music and Movement Month and are so thankful to all of your for participating! Seeing videos and pictures of you incorporating Music and Movement with your students made it extra special.

Our hope is that over the last month, you were able to learn more about Music and Movement and the benefits it brings for people of all ages and that you will continue to incorporate it into your life and the lives of your children and students. Not only is it a great way to learn and teach important skills, it's also so much fun. We are also hoping to make this an annual event, so stay tuned for Music and Movement Month 2024!

Check out all of the amazing resources, movement props, teaching tips, and more shared during Music and Movement Month 2023!
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Bear Paw Creek Music and Movement Month The Benefits of Music and Movement for Early Childhood Development Best Music Education Teaching Tools Movement Props
Madison Stephens

Madison Stephens

Madison has been a part of BPC her whole life. As a young child, she and her siblings helped stuff stretchy bands and flip bean bags. Over the last six years she has become even more involved and is now an official BPC employee with the role of seamstress and social media manager. When she’s not working, you’ll find her spending time with family and friends, going on walks with her dog, working with horses, or cooking and baking. Madison feels honored to have the opportunity to work alongside her mom, Janet Stephens, and be involved with the family business.

The post Music and Movement Month 2023 Recap appeared first on Bear Paw Creek.

]]> Music and Movement Month – Celebrating With a Giveaway! https://musicandmovementproducts.com/music-and-movement-month-celebrating-with-a-giveaway/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=music-and-movement-month-celebrating-with-a-giveaway Tue, 04 Apr 2023 12:14:39 +0000 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/?p=59866 Music and Movement Month - Celebrating With a Giveaway! You might be thinking, Music and Movement Month?! I didn't know there is such a thing! While Music and Movement Month isn't a nationally recognized event, Sandra Hendrickson from Sing Play Create celebrates it all month […]

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Music and Movement Month - Celebrating With a Giveaway!

You might be thinking, Music and Movement Month?! I didn't know there is such a thing! While Music and Movement Month isn't a nationally recognized event, Sandra Hendrickson from Sing Play Create celebrates it all month long in April every year, and this year Bear Paw Creek is thrilled to join the celebration!

I'm sure you know by now that we at Bear Paw Creek are extremely passionate about music and movement and the benefits it brings for people of all ages. Our movement props were all inspired by the desire to create useful, educational, and fun tools that can be used by parents, therapists, educators, and anyone wanting to incorporate music into the lives of their children or students. That's why we are so excited to be partnering with Sandra this month to bring you a HUGE giveaway full of music, creative movement props, activities, and more.

Keep reading to find out all of the details on the giveaway and how you can join in on the celebration!

 

Music and Movement Month Giveaway & Sing Play Create

Sing Play Create is an incredible resource for parents, teachers, and music therapists. Sandra has two YouTube channels that are FULL of educational videos, teaching tips, songs, and activities. You can check them both out here: Sing Play Create Educational Music Channel and Sing Play Create Teaching Tips.  Also on her website you will find a free resource library where you can gain access to exclusive email list freebies! Such as music lessons, brain breaks, songs, games, printables, and more. To learn more about Sandra and why she started Sing Play Create, click here. 

Among all of the amazing educational resources Sandra has created, she has activity bundles made specifically for our creative movement props. She has bundles for the Stretchy Band, Bean Bags, Parachute and more.

For our big giveaway we have combined both of our products to offer a prize worth over $150.00! Plus, all of the props and activities you could win will be extremely beneficial as you either continue incorporating music and movement into your children's and student's lives or, if you're just starting out.

Here's what you could win (All worth over $150):

1.) Connect-a-Stretchy Band

2.) Set of 6 Primary Color Wrist Ribbon Streamers

3.) Creative Movement Scarf Kit, Set of 6

4.) Set of 6 Primary Color Square Bean Bags

5.) Rainbow Balloon Ball

6.) Small Play Parachute for Kids

7.) Balloon Ball Activities for Children

8.) Buggy Parachute Music and Movement Activities: Music, PE, All Classrooms

9.) Buggy Stretchy Band Movement Activities for Music, P.E., Movement Classes

10.) Buggy Scarf and Ribbon Activities for Preschool, Music Class, P.E. Movement Activities

11.) Buggy Bean Bag Activities and Games for Preschool, Music and Movement Classes

12.) Buggy Movement Activity Posters, Cards, Presentation for Freeze Dance Activities

Click Here to Enter the Giveaway!(opens in new tab)

Join the Celebration and Get Bonus Entries!

Do you want to join the Music and Movement Month celebration?

Post a video or picture of you and your children or students incorporating music and movement into your music therapy session, circle time, music class, virtual session, or at-home play! Tag us in your post @bearpawcreek and @singplaycreate and use the hashtag #musicandmovementmonth to get 10 BONUS ENTRIES!

To learn more about the benefits of music and movement, you can check out this blog post from several years ago. Make sure you're following us @bearpawcreek and @singplaycreate on social media where we will be sharing music and movement themed activities and resources all month long. You can check out week one's activity, "8 Scarf & Ribbon Activities Blog Post" and "8 Scarf Music and Movment Activities for Elementary Music Class YouTube Video".

We are so excited to be giving back with a big giveaway and hope you will join in on the celebration!

It's Music and Movement Month! Click here to get the details about our BIG GIVEAWAY and find out how you can join the celebration.
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Madison Stephens

Madison Stephens

Madison has been a part of BPC her whole life. As a young child, she and her siblings helped stuff stretchy bands and flip bean bags. Over the last six years she has become even more involved and is now an official BPC employee with the role of seamstress and social media manager. When she’s not working, you’ll find her spending time with family and friends, going on walks with her dog, working with horses, or cooking and baking. Madison feels honored to have the opportunity to work alongside her mom, Janet Stephens, and be involved with the family business.

The post Music and Movement Month – Celebrating With a Giveaway! appeared first on Bear Paw Creek.

]]> Best Parachute Activities and Songs https://musicandmovementproducts.com/best-parachute-activities-and-songs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-parachute-activities-and-songs Tue, 21 Mar 2023 10:30:39 +0000 https://musicandmovementproducts.com/?p=59664 Best Parachute Activities and Songs In 2022, we added a new product to our creative movement prop line, the Small Play Parachute for Kids. Since then, it has quickly grown in popularity and we have loved seeing everyone's excitement over it. Seeing as it has […]

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Best Parachute Activities and Songs

In 2022, we added a new product to our creative movement prop line, the Small Play Parachute for Kids. Since then, it has quickly grown in popularity and we have loved seeing everyone's excitement over it. Seeing as it has been several months since we introduced the parachute, I thought it was about time to share some parachute activities and song ideas that you can use to make parachute play, even more, fun and educational.

Keep reading to learn about the benefits of parachute play and get parachute activity ideas to use in your next session, circle time, or during at-home play.

Plus, I'm going to share a list of songs to use with the parachute from a new resource that I am beyond excited to tell you about!

The Benefits of Parachute Play for Kids

We all know that children learn very well through play, imitation, and exploration — music and movement combine these using a range of different senses. Music and movement activities improve coordination, gross and fine motor skills, cognitive development, strengthen imagination, and so much more. To learn more about the benefits of music and movement activities, you can check out one of our other blog posts here.

Music and movement activities are even better when paired with creative movement props. Props are used as an aid to reinforce or support movements, concepts, skills, imagination, and creativity in the music space. What happens when you incorporate parachute activities into your music and movement time? What unique benefits does the parachute offer?

  • Teaches children to listen and follow instructions well
  • Encourages cooperation and teamwork
  • Reinforces turn-taking, sharing, and promotes social interaction
  • Promotes communication and language skills
  • Helps develop a sense of rhythm
  • Introduces physical activity as fun
  • Assists in developing hand-eye coordination, balance, and mobility
  • Teaches problem-solving

Our small play parachute is 30" wide with four handles, making it perfect for one-on-one use, for three children and an adult, or four children with an adult supervising. And, you still get all of the same benefits with the smaller version as you do with the full-size one. Having the smaller parachute also allows you the option of one-on-one time with a child that the large parachute cannot give.

If a child has certain skills that need improving or issues that need to be further addressed, but can't be done in a group setting, the small parachute allows you to work with the child one-on-one while still getting the amazing benefits of parachute play.

Benefits of Parachute Play for Kids & the Best Parachute Activities and Songs - www.BearPawCreek.com
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Here is a great video shared by DiscoverDance Education on Instagram that showcases the size of the parachute and one of the ways it can be used. In the video, it is being used by an adult and early teen.

"In 2018, DiscoverDance and Bear Paw Creek teamed up to create the DiscoverDance Prop Collection. Over the years, DiscoverDance has had the honor of testing and incorporating all of their props into the DiscoverDance program.

Their latest creation is the small play parachute for kids. It is perfect for toddler hands, small classes, or caregiver and tot pairings. It’s easier to maneuver due to its size and weight, and it’s quieter for those children who are sensitive to the loud noises a large parachute produces."

-Andrea Trench, DiscoverDance

Parachute Activities

There are so many different parachute activities out there as well as music to go with them. Here are just a few of our favorites that would work well with the Small Play Parachute!

1.) Popcorn: Put soft or very light balls on top of the parachute, like these. Everyone involved should stand and hold a handle. Shake the parachute and quickly move it up and down, the balls will look like popcorn popping! To add a fun challenge for older kids, place an even amount of two colors of balls on the parachute. For example, you could use six red balls and six blue balls. If you have four kids around the parachute, then divide into two teams. If you are working with just two individuals, each person is on their own team. The red team wants to shake the parachute while keeping their red balls on and getting the blue ones off. Blue team tries the opposite.

2.) Don't Drop the Balloon Ball: This is similar to the Popcorn parachute activity and the well known game "The Floor is Lava", but is a little bit easier for younger children. Take one of our Balloon Balls (they come in several fun patterns) and place it in the center of the parachute. Slowly begin to move the parachute up and down, side to side, try to get the Balloon Ball to spin around, but don't let it hit the floor! The goal is to keep it on the parachute while moving it around. This helps reinforce the skill of concentration, communication, and teamwork while you work together to keep the ball from touching the ground.

3.) Catapult: This could also be done with the Balloon Ball or, you could even try using a bunch of the small soft balls linked above. Place the ball in the middle of the parachute then everyone goes, '1, 2, 3, LIFT!" The idea is to throw the ball as high as you can in the air. If you're indoors, can you hit the ceiling? For more of a challenge, add some weight. You can throw some of our Bean Bags on the parachute and try to get those to catapult as high as possible. It won't be as easy as the Balloon Ball or soft balls!

4.) Merry-Go-Round: Have everyone turn sideways and hold a handle. They walk around in a circle to create a "merry-go-round". Change it up and have them skip, hop, or march around in a circle. Play around with the music, you can pause it, cueing the participants to switch directions. This would be a great activity to incorporate with music that varies in tempo. When the music goes fast, try to make the merry-go-round go as fast as possible! When it goes slow, try to walk in slow motion.

Keep reading for a list of songs that will go perfectly with these parachute activities.

Songs to Use With the Parachute

Have you ever heard of Children's Music with Nancy Kopman? I hadn't until a few months ago! Nancy Kopman is an Early Childhood Educator, recording artist, performer and music curriculum builder. Her "Music With a Purpose" is used by educators, therapists, caregivers and families worldwide. Nancy's songs and classes (both in-person and online) focus on movement, connection and learning together while having fun. She currently has six albums available for purchase, both as downloadable and physical CDs. You can check them out here.

Several weeks ago I reached out to her asking about her blog post, Parachute Games and Songs for Young Children. This led to a conversation about different ways we could collaborate with each other, since her music fits so well with our creative movement props. We now have several projects in the works and are beyond excited about this new partnership! Be sure to to follow Nancy on her social media pages and also check out her Patreon community. You can also find her music on Spotify.

Nancy sent me a list of her favorite songs to use with the parachute that I will list below, they would also work very well with our Stretchy Bands!

  1. "Shake, Shake, Shake", from "Senses" (written specifically for the parachute)
  2. "Walk Around", from "The Seasons" (see the song in action with a large parachute here)
  3. "Bicycle", from "The Seasons"
  4. "Breath In, Breathe Out", "from "Wonderful You" (nice slow movements with a parachute as you breathe in and out)
  5. "Horses", from "Senses"
  6. "Popcorn", from "I Am A Tree"
  7. "In and Out", from "I Am A Tree"

I hope all of the parachute activities and songs shared will be fun additions to your music class, circle time, music therapy sessions, or during at home play. Music and movement, especially when paired with creative movement props, is such a fun way of teaching children very important skills and we are honored to play a part in that!

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Madison Stephens

Madison Stephens

Madison has been a part of BPC her whole life. As a young child, she and her siblings helped stuff stretchy bands and flip bean bags. Over the last six years she has become even more involved and is now an official BPC employee with the role of seamstress and social media manager. When she’s not working, you’ll find her spending time with family and friends, going on walks with her dog, working with horses, or cooking and baking. Madison feels honored to have the opportunity to work alongside her mom, Janet Stephens, and be involved with the family business.

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