Falling Leaves Finger Play
Finger plays combine language, movement, and music in a developmentally perfect package for infants and toddlers. The repetitive nature supports language acquisition while the movements provide sensory feedback that aids memory. Fall themed finger plays build seasonal awareness and vocabulary simultaneously.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Autumn Festival
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Experience a simple finger play with fall themes
- Practise anticipation and participation through repetition
- Build vocabulary related to falling leaves and autumn wind
Materials
- Real leaves or fabric leaves for visual support
- Comfortable seating area
- Chart with finger play words and pictures (optional)
Instructions
Gather children in a comfortable circle where they can see your face and hands clearly. Have real or fabric leaves nearby to show during the introduction: "Look at these leaves! When the wind blows in fall, leaves fall from trees. Let's do a finger play about falling leaves!"
Teach this simple finger play, doing motions slowly and exaggeratedly:
"Five little leaves on the autumn trees (hold up five fingers)
The first one said, 'I'm starting to freeze!' (wiggle thumb)
The second one said, 'It's getting quite cool!' (wiggle index finger)
The third one said, 'I'll soon be in a pool!' (wiggle middle finger)
The fourth one said, 'The sun is going away!' (wiggle ring finger)
The fifth one said, 'I'll blow off today!' (wiggle pinky)
Then whoooosh went the wind (wave hands overhead)
And the leaves all flew away! (flutter fingers down)"
Repeat multiple times. Infants may watch intently while toddlers begin to join in on favourite parts, especially the dramatic "whoooosh!" Encourage any participation, even just wiggling fingers or making wind sounds.
Throughout the day, repeat the finger play at transition times, reinforcing learning through natural repetition.
Educator tip
Create a simple hand movement version for very young infants, focusing on the wind motion and leaf falling. They respond to the dramatic whoosh even before understanding the words.
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 attention during the finger play, attempts to imitate motions, and growing familiarity with the sequence over time.