Spanish Counting
Toddlers develop global awareness through movement, repetition, and play. 'Spanish Counting' supports language growth and curiosity.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Around the World
- Learning area: Numeracy
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Label countries or symbols
- Imitate movements
- Match colours/shapes
- Follow 1-step directions
Instructions
Materials
- Five large, brightly coloured foam blocks.
- A small basket or bin for storage.
- A visual chart showing numbers one through five with corresponding dots.
- A set of five plastic maracas or rhythm sticks.
- A clear space on the floor for movement.
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate interest in hearing a second language through active listening.
- Imitate simple vocalizations or sounds modelled by the teacher.
- Practise one-to-one correspondence by touching objects while counting.
- Develop fine motor skills by grasping and moving blocks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather the children in a circle on the floor and place the basket of blocks in the centre.
2. Introduce the numbers one through five in Spanish by saying them slowly and clearly.
3. Pick up one block and hold it up high, saying, uno. Encourage the children to repeat the word.
4. Place the block on the floor and invite a child to help you place the second block down, saying, dos.
5. Continue this process until all five blocks are on the floor, counting aloud in Spanish each time.
6. Use the maracas to tap out the rhythm of the numbers to keep the children engaged through sound.
7. Model the action of pointing to each block as you count to reinforce the connection between the word and the object.
8. Allow the children to handle the blocks freely while you repeat the Spanish words for each number they touch.
9. End the activity by placing the blocks back into the basket one by one, counting again in Spanish.
Educator Tip
Toddlers learn best through repetition and physical movement. If the children lose interest in sitting, turn the counting into a game where they must run or crawl to a block before you count it. Keep the pace brisk to match their short attention spans.
Assessment
- Observe if the child attempts to mimic the Spanish pronunciation of the numbers.
- Record whether the child points to or touches the blocks as the teacher counts.
- Note if the child shows excitement or sustained engagement during the rhythmic portion of the lesson.
Assessment
Observe and note: emerging independence, two-word combinations, imitation of actions, and early pretend play. Use Development Matters non-statutory guidance checkpoints. Participation, imitation, early vocabulary attempts.