Remember the scene in Color Purple where Celie and Nettie play their hand game? It took us back to a time where we clapped hands and chanted lyrics to catchy songs with a group of our girlfriends. It was rhythmic in nature and taught us hand-eye coordination and communication skills. It also boosted our confidence to be able to weave hands in an intricate, synchronized fashion. We clapped hands in solidarity, and we also jumped rope. With one long, braided rope, two plastic handles and three girls, feet would smack the ground to the beat of song and rope hitting the ground. We’d jump in and out, waiting on the perfect moment so as not to stop the rope. These ol’ school games brought us together – kept us active and young at heart. And to this day, Michelle Obama still loves jumping rope for a good workout. Which of these childhood jingles do you remember?
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear
turn all around,
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear
touch the ground
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear
shoe yo’ shoes
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear
be excused
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear
jump back in
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear
do it again
This classic jump rope song kept you jumping in and out of the swinging rope space.
