Number Songs and Fingerplays
To develop number sequence knowledge and subitising through number songs with actions.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Mathematics
- Learning area: Mathematics
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Counts to 5 in sequence
- Joins in number songs
- Uses one-to-one touch counting
- Understands zero/'none'
Materials
- Number song props
- Finger puppet number characters
- Number song books
- Action rhyme mats
Instructions
Sing number songs with real objects to support counting: 'Five Little Ducks' with five rubber ducks, 'Five Current Buns' with real or play buns. The physical objects make abstract number words concrete.
Always count objects aloud with one-to-one correspondence during props songs: touch each duck as you remove it, 'One duck gone — FOUR little ducks went swimming one day...' This models correct counting procedure.
Pause before the number word to let children fill it in: 'Five little ducks... and then one went away... how many came back? [pause] FOUR!' This comprehension check is embedded in the song.
Introduce counting backwards in songs — 'Five Currant Buns' counts from five to none. Backwards counting is harder than forwards and needs lots of musical support. 'Five, four, three, two, one — and then there were NONE!'
Use fingers consistently: hold up five fingers, fold one down per verse. 'Watch my fingers — five, now four, now three...' Finger representations of numbers are fundamental and always available.
After the song, connect to a real-life context: 'We sang about five ducks. How many children are at this table? Let's count together — one, two, three. Three children!'