Ideas for Writing/Recording w/Kids!?!?

[comfortstarr]

Wasn't sure which forum to ask this in, so forgive. I’m going to do a little project with 4-6 third graders. Basically, we're going to write and record a song. I know I’ll need to put a ton of structure around it, but I still want them to “write” it.

I have a simple home studio set-up: Logic, keyboard, guitars (electric & acoustic), and a couple of basses.

I figured before they come over, maybe have them each write out some song subjects and some lyrics, even a just a line. Once here, maybe I’d start by having them “create” a beat/rhythm (probably leaning on Apple Loops). I thought I'd set-up a few loops/rhythms that sound "current" (these kids are very much into typical kid stuff (top-40). Then get them to come up with a melody and/or baseline. Maybe, have a subset working on lyrics.

I really have no idea! But welcome thoughts and advice. I want them to have fun, but I really want them to complete the song and really feel like "they" did it. It might take two sessions.

[Drone]

I don't know if the composition skill would be there at that age?

Following though, I'm involved in a home school co-op, and do the music side.

[Snarl 12/8]

Kids that age haven't quite had their creativity turned off yet. My advice would be to have everything turned on, ready, mics plugged in and levels set (Might want safety compression/limiting on the vocal mics) and just be ready to capture whatever they throw at you. Should be a blast if they self-selected for this activity. If they're being forced into it, it might require more cajoling on your part.