Rhyme Time Circle
To develop phonological awareness and love of language through shared rhyme sessions.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Joins in with repeated phrases
- Anticipates rhyming words
- Performs actions accurately
- Attempts new rhymes independently
Materials
- Rhyme song cards
- Action rhyme props
- Rhyme time puppets
- Nursery rhyme books
Instructions
Establish a consistent rhyme time routine — same signal, same gathering spot, same opening song. Children find security in predictable structures, and the routine itself teaches them about the sequential nature of events (which underpins narrative understanding).
Open with the same 'warm-up' rhyme every session: 'Let's clap our hands together...' This signals 'rhyme time is starting' and helps children transition from play.
Choose three to four rhymes per session. Use the same ones for a full week before introducing new ones. By Wednesday, children will be confidently joining in from the start; on Monday they're listening. Both are valuable.
Pause before rhyming words: 'Jack and Jill went up the... [pause, look expectant]... HILL!' Children who know the rhyme will shout the missing word with delight. Those still learning will hear the pattern clearly.
Introduce action rhymes where the body tells the story: Incy Wincy Spider (fingers walk up), Wind the Bobbin Up (arm circles), Head Shoulders Knees and Toes (touch body parts). Physical engagement deepens memory.
After a rhyme, briefly discuss it: 'Jack fell down! That sounds like it hurt. Has anyone ever fallen down? What happened?' This brief discussion builds comprehension and links story to life.