Looking for a fantastic way to engage elementary school kids during story time or music sessions? The “Hot Potato” song by The Wiggles is your perfect go-to track! This isn’t just a song; it’s the soundtrack to a lively and fun game that children absolutely adore. As a content creator at payoffsong.com, I’m excited to share how you can bring this energetic game to life using the ukulele and watch the kids light up.
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The original blog post image showcases ukulele chords and lyrics for the Hot Potato song, ideal for educators and parents seeking musical activities for children.
Why “Hot Potato” is a Hit with Elementary Kids
The “Hot Potato” game is a classic for a reason. It’s simple, gets kids moving, and builds anticipation and excitement. When you combine it with the catchy “Hot Potato” song by The Wiggles, you’ve got a recipe for guaranteed fun. The Wiggles, known for their engaging children’s music, have created a song that’s perfect for this game. Its repetitive lyrics and upbeat tempo make it easy for kids to follow along and get energized.
In my experience leading library story times, I’ve found that elementary-aged children particularly love this activity. While I did try it with preschoolers, the concept of being “out” of the game was a bit difficult for them. However, with elementary kids, it’s a blast from start to finish. They ask to play it again and again, which is always a great sign!
How to Play “Hot Potato” with The Wiggles Song on Ukulele
Here’s how you can easily set up and play this game:
- Gather in a Circle: Have the children sit in a circle on the floor. This formation is ideal for passing the “hot potato” around.
- The “Potato” Prop: Grab a soft object to use as your “hot potato.” In my library sessions, we often use a stuffed animal. Kids especially love using Pigeon from the popular children’s books! Anything soft and easily passed will work – a beanbag, a small pillow, or even a rolled-up pair of socks.
- Ukulele Music Magic: This is where you come in with your ukulele! Play The Wiggles “Hot Potato” song. To add an element of surprise, try playing with your eyes closed so you can’t see who has the “potato.” This makes it completely random when the music stops.
- Someone’s Out! Stop playing the ukulele at a random point in the song. Whoever is holding the “potato” when the music stops is “out” for that round. They can step out of the circle until the next game.
- Repeat for Fun: Continue playing rounds until only two children are left.
- The Final Showdown: For the last two players, have them pass the “potato” back and forth between each other as you play. Stop the music one last time to declare the winner – whoever is not holding the potato when the music stops wins!
Ukulele Chords for The Wiggles “Hot Potato” Song
You don’t need to be a ukulele pro to play this song. The chords are simple and repetitive, making it easy to learn. Here are the basic chords you’ll need:
C
Hot potato hot potato. Hot potato. Hot Potato hot potato.
A G C
Potato. Potato potato potato.
You can keep the game interesting by switching up the lyrics! After “Hot Potato,” try singing “Cold Spaghetti” or “Mashed Banana” – kids find these silly variations hilarious!
Benefits of the “Hot Potato” Game
Beyond being incredibly fun, this game offers several benefits for children:
- Gross Motor Skills: Passing the object around the circle encourages movement and coordination.
- Listening Skills: Kids need to pay attention to the music and stop when it stops.
- Social Skills: Playing in a group helps children interact and cooperate (and handle a little friendly competition!).
- Musical Engagement: Introduces children to music and rhythm in a playful way.
Make Story Time Sing with “Hot Potato”
The “Hot Potato” song and game is a surefire way to inject energy and laughter into your story time or music class. It’s a fantastic activity for elementary school kids, easy to facilitate, and requires minimal materials. So, grab your ukulele, get those kids in a circle, and get ready for some “Hot Potato” fun! You’ll be surprised how quickly it becomes a favorite!
