Song Time with Actions
To encourage early vocalisation and sound-making through repetitive songs with simple actions.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Communication & Language
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Joins in with actions
- Vocalises during familiar songs
- Anticipates key moments in songs
- Requests repetition through gestures
Materials
- Comfortable group space
- Props related to songs (e.g., toy spider for Incy Wincy)
- Musical instruments for accompaniment
Instructions
Create a cosy, intimate space where babies can see your face clearly. Whether you're working one-to-one or with a small group, ensure everyone can make eye contact with you and remove any distractions from the immediate environment.
Begin with a familiar opening song that signals the start of singing time—something like 'Hello, hello, hello and how are you?' Using the same opening each session helps babies anticipate what's coming and builds a sense of security through routine.
Choose three or four well-loved nursery rhymes with repetitive patterns and simple actions. Sing slowly and clearly, exaggerating your mouth movements so babies can watch how sounds are formed. 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat', 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' and 'Pat-a-Cake' work beautifully at this age.
Use big, clear facial expressions that match the song's meaning—wide eyes for surprise, beaming smiles for happy parts, dramatic pauses before exciting moments. If you're using props, hold them up near your face so babies can watch both the object and your expression simultaneously.
Build in deliberate pauses at predictable moments. Before 'Pop!' in 'Pop Goes the Weasel', pause and look expectantly at the babies. Many will show anticipation through body movements, stilling, or excited sounds—celebrate this with delight!
When babies make any sounds during songs—babbling, cooing, squealing—respond with genuine enthusiasm: 'You're singing too! I love hearing your voice!' Accept all vocalisations as valid participation in the music-making.
Don't be afraid to sing favourites multiple times. Repetition builds familiarity and confidence, and babies often show more participation on the second or third go as they begin to anticipate what comes next.
End with a calm, slow song to signal that singing time is finishing. Say something like: 'All finished singing! We sang about spiders and stars and boats. What shall we sing tomorrow?'