Everyday Counting Songs
To develop early number awareness through repetitive counting songs and rhymes.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Mathematics
- Learning area: Mathematics
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Shows anticipation in number rhymes
- Joins in with actions
- Vocalises during songs
- Hears number language regularly
Materials
- Number rhyme props (five little ducks, etc.)
- Finger puppets for counting
- Picture cards for songs
- Group song time space
Instructions
Build a repertoire of four or five counting songs that you use consistently: 'Five Little Ducks', 'Five Little Monkeys', 'One, Two, Three, Four, Five (Once I Caught a Fish Alive)', 'Ten in the Bed', 'Five Currant Buns'. Familiarity matters more than variety at this age.
Gather or make simple props—finger puppets, laminated pictures, soft toys. When singing 'Five Little Ducks', have five duck puppets and remove one each verse: 'Four little ducks went swimming one day...' This makes the counting concrete and visible.
Use a clear, melodic voice and emphasise number words slightly: 'FIVE little ducks went swimming one day, over the hills and far away...' Babies attend to rhythm and repetition even before they understand the meaning of words.
Hold up the correct number of fingers as you sing. For 'Five Little Ducks', show five fingers, then four, then three. Babies watch your hands intently, and this connects number words to quantity from the earliest age.
Build anticipation with dramatic pauses. Before key moments, pause: 'And when the mummy duck said quack quack quack...' [pause] '...FOUR little ducks came back!' Watch for babies' excitement as they learn to predict what's coming.
Celebrate any participation—even very young babies can 'join in' by bouncing, waving arms, or vocalising. Respond warmly: 'You're dancing! You love the monkey song!' As babies grow, they'll attempt actions and sounds.
When a baby clearly loves a particular song, sing it over and over. Don't worry about boring them—they adore the predictable and find deep comfort in repetition. Their confidence grows through familiarity.
Weave counting into everyday moments beyond song time. Count steps whilst carrying a baby: 'One, two, three, four, up the stairs!' Count toes during nappy changes: 'One, two, three, four, five toes!' This embeds number language naturally.