Nursery Rhyme Lap Time
To develop early phonological awareness and enjoyment of language through nursery rhymes.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Anticipates rhyme actions
- Shows excitement at favourite rhymes
- Vocalises during familiar rhymes
- Joins in with physical actions
Materials
- Lap bouncing rhymes repertoire
- Action rhyme props
- Comfortable seating
- Rhyme cards for reference
Instructions
Build a core repertoire of ten to twelve rhymes used daily: Humpty Dumpty, Round and Round the Garden, Incy Wincy Spider, This Little Piggy, Pat-a-Cake, Row Your Boat, Baa Baa Black Sheep, Twinkle Twinkle, Hickory Dickory Dock, Little Miss Muffet, Jack and Jill, Ring o' Roses.
For lap bouncing rhymes, hold the baby securely on your knees facing you. Bounce gently to the rhythm: 'Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross...' accelerating slightly at exciting moments and pausing before the final line.
Use rhymes with tickling components — 'Round and Round the Garden' builds anticipation beautifully as you spiral around the palm before the tickle. Watch for the baby bracing in delicious anticipation.
Exaggerate the rhythm. Rhymes work because of their predictable beat. Tap gently on the baby's tummy or clap their hands to the rhythm so they feel it physically, not just hear it.
Repeat rhymes immediately when babies show enjoyment: bounce excitedly, squeal, or reach for you. 'Again? Yes! Let's do it again!' Repetition is the point — it's how the brain learns.
When the baby begins to anticipate moments in familiar rhymes — stiffening before the 'gotcha', opening their mouth before the tickle — celebrate: 'You know what's coming! Clever!'