Oats and Beans and Barley Grow

To develop musical expression and rhythm through action songs about planting and growing.

• Framework: EYFS
• Unit: EYFS Seed to Table
• Learning area: Expressive Arts and Design
• Level: EYFS 3-4

Objectives

• Learn and perform action songs
• Keep a steady beat with instruments
• Create new verses collaboratively
• Express ideas through music and movement

Materials

• Song lyric cards with illustrations
• Percussion instruments (shakers, drums, claves)
• Garden props (watering cans, spades)
• Space for movement

Instructions

Teach songs with clear actions and repetition. Encourage children to suggest new verses and choose instruments. Create a joyful, inclusive atmosphere where all contributions are valued.

Educator tip

Record the children's performances and share with families via the learning journal—this celebrates their musical achievements.

Assessment

Observe and note: musical engagement, rhythmic accuracy, creative contributions, and confidence in performance.

More from EYFS Seed to Table

• Planting Our Seeds
• From Garden to Kitchen
• The Enormous Turnip Retelling
• Counting and Sorting the Harvest
• Vegetable Printing
• Digging and Planting Outdoors
• Our Garden Journal
• Sharing Our Harvest Feast