Magic Sleigh from our "Nutcracker: A Musical Tale"

This activity is inspired by Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker. The tune for the song “Magic Sleigh” comes straight from the Waltz of the Snowflakes movement of the ballet (at the end of Act 1), in which Clara and the Prince are traveling toward the Kingdom of Sweets. The beauty and simplicity of the tune just begged me to use it in a children’s song, and I think it turned out perfectly.

In the song, you and your child will ride in a pretend sleigh, sing and move your bodies in a “legato” (smoothly connected) way, and practice impulse control by freezing when you hear the word “stop”. It’s short and sweet, and requires no preparation on your part! You might find yourself singing this lovely melody all day long.

Challenge: Listen to the Waltz of the Snowflakes, and try to find the “Magic Sleigh” melody (nearly 2 minutes into the movement). Here’s a great recording on Spotify.

Extension Idea: Explore legato even more by doing some legato art with smooth paint strokes, and finding smooth objects around your house. Another wonderful Nutcracker movement to hear legato sounds in, is the Arabian Dance.

If you liked this activity, you might also enjoy our Chinese dance peek-a-boo activity (one of my favorites.). Check it out here.

Click here to purchase and get access to our Nutcracker Course that includes all of our interactive and magical activities that accompany this wonderful holiday music!