The Alphabet Kids Made Pumpkin Pie
Young children learn through multiple modalities: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. This alphabet activity engages all three by showing letters, saying them aloud, and connecting each to an action word that children can physically act out. The pumpkin pie theme creates a cohesive fall narrative that makes abstract letter learning concrete and memorable.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Autumn Festival
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS 3-4, Reception
Objectives
- Practise letter recognition through an engaging chant
- Develop phonemic awareness by connecting letters to action words
- Build vocabulary related to food preparation and fall activities
Materials
- Large letter cards (A through Z)
- Pictures or props representing each action word
- Chart paper with the chant written out
- Optional: real or play pumpkin for visual focus
Instructions
Display large letter cards and introduce the concept: "The alphabet kids all helped make pumpkin pie for the fall festival. Each letter helper did something different!" This narrative framing transforms drill practise into storytelling.
Introduce the chant rhythmically, performing actions as you go:
"The alphabet kids made pumpkin pies,
They all helped out, surprise, surprise!
A ate them. (pretend to eat)
B baked them. (mime putting in oven)
C counted them. (count on fingers)
D divided them. (cutting motion)
E emptied them. (turning motion)
F froze them. (shiver)
G gave them. (offering hands)
H hid them. (cover eyes)
I iced them. (spreading motion)
J juggled them. (juggling motion)"
Continue through the alphabet, inventing actions for each letter. Invite children to join in as they learn the pattern. Focus on a few letters at a time rather than overwhelming with the entire alphabet at once.
As children become familiar with the chant, add letter card pointing so they see the letter shape while hearing and saying its sound. Challenge older learners to notice the beginning sounds: "What sound does 'baked' start with? It's the same as the letter B!"
Create a classroom chart of the complete chant with illustrations for ongoing reference and independent practice.
Educator tip
Focus on one letter per day or several per week rather than rushing through all 26. Deep learning of few letters is more valuable than shallow exposure to many. Build the complete chant over time.
Assessment
Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Observe letter recognition, beginning sound awareness, and engagement with the multisensory learning format. Note which letters are firmly learned and which need additional practice.