Spanish Counting
Infants build neural foundations through sensory pairing and repetition. 'Spanish Counting' introduces global diversity in developmentally appropriate way.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Around the World
- Learning area: Numeracy
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Attend to visual cultural images
- Respond to music
- Explore textures
- Begin global awareness through sensory exposure
Instructions
Materials
- Five soft, colorful fabric cubes or plush balls.
- A small basket or soft container.
- A clear, calm space on a floor mat.
- A printed card with the numbers one through five written in Spanish.
- A set of small, safe rattles or sensory shakers.
Learning Objectives
- Infants will demonstrate auditory tracking by turning their heads toward the sound of the teacher counting.
- Infants will engage in sensory exploration by grasping or touching the fabric cubes.
- Infants will show increased focus through brief periods of shared attention with the teacher.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place the infants in a comfortable, seated position on the floor mat within a circle.
2. Sit at the infants eye level to ensure they can see your facial expressions and mouth movements.
3. Hold up one fabric cube and say the number one in English, then immediately repeat it in Spanish as uno.
4. Gently place the cube into the basket while emphasizing the Spanish word.
5. Repeat this process for numbers two through five, using the Spanish words dos, tres, cuatro, and cinco.
6. Use an enthusiastic and melodic tone to keep the infants engaged with the rhythm of the language.
7. Allow the infants to reach for and touch the cubes after each number is introduced to encourage tactile learning.
8. Shake a rattle once for uno, twice for dos, and so on, to provide an auditory connection to the numerical value.
9. Keep the activity brief, as infant attention spans are short, and stop if the children become restless.
10. Conclude by gently clapping your hands five times while counting in Spanish to celebrate the completion of the sequence.
Educator Tip
Consistency is key when introducing new languages to infants. Use the same melodic tone every time you count to help them associate the sounds with the routine. If an infant loses interest, focus on the sensory aspect of the cubes rather than the counting.
Assessment
- Observe if the infant follows the movement of the cubes with their eyes.
- Note if the infant reaches for the cubes when the teacher presents them.
- Record if the infant responds to the change in pitch or rhythm when the teacher switches to Spanish.
Assessment
Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Observe gaze tracking, reaching, emotional regulation.