0mo–11mo8 minMusicFamily timeQuiet time
Counting Rhymes Around the World
A warm, repetitive singing routine where you shares 1–2 short counting rhymes in any language(s) they know, using gentle actions so your child can enjoy number words and simple changes in ‘one, two, three’.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a safe comfortable place to hold or sit with your child (lap, mat, supported seat) with close supervision
- your voice (one simple counting rhyme you can repeat)
- your hands (for gentle actions like tapping the mat or wiggling fingers)
Nice to have
- a small soft toy (to ‘tap’ or ‘bounce’ instead of tapping the body)
- a short list of 2–3 favourite counting rhymes (in any language) saved on your phone or written down
- a scarf or cloth (for a gentle peek-a-boo pause)
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneDevelops an awareness of number names through their enjoyment of action rhymes and songs that relate to their experience of numbers.Mind· 0mo–11mo· core
- MilestoneNotices changes in number of objects/images or sounds in group of up to 3.Mind· 0mo–11mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneListens to and enjoys rhythmic patterns in rhymes and stories.Mind· 8mo–20mo· core· Steps 1, 4
- MilestoneAnticipates repeated sounds, sights and actions, e.g. when an adult demonstrates an action toy several times.Mind· 8mo–20mo· core· Step 4
- MilestoneListens to familiar sounds, words, or finger plays.Mind· 0mo–11mo· stretch
- MilestoneResponds to a speaking personHeart· 0mo–14mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneAlerts or calms to speechMind· 0mo–4mo· core· Step 1
What it practices
- Develops an awareness of number names through their enjoyment of action rhymes and songs that relate to their experience of numbers.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Notices changes in number of objects/images or sounds in group of up to 3.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Has some understanding that things exist, even when out of sight.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Collect number and counting rhymes from a range of cultures and in other languages. This will benefit all children and will give additional support for children learning English as an additional language.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)