3.3y–5y12 minStory timeMusicFamily time
Goldilocks Voice & Intonation Games
Use a familiar story (like Goldilocks) plus an action song to play with character voices, pitch, loud/quiet, and rhythm—helping your child explore how intonation changes meaning.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a favourite storybook (or a story you know well)
- 3 household items to stand in for characters/props (e.g., 3 bowls/cups/spoons)
Nice to have
- a scarf/tea towel (as a ‘costume’ or puppet blanket)
- a small safe instrument substitute (a container with rice as a shaker)
Movement level: low
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneUses Intonation and Rhythm to Clarify MeaningMind· 2.5y–4.2y· core
- MilestoneExplores and learns how sounds can be changed.Mind· 2.5y–4.2y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneLinks statements and sticks to a main theme or intention.Mind· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneIndependent connected storytellingMind· 4y–5y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneRetells or summarizes story contentMind· 4y–5y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneSings familiar songs or dancesMind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneEnacts a pretend roleMind· 3y–5y· stretch
What it practices
- Extends vocabulary, especially by grouping and naming, exploring the meaning and sounds of new words.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Uses language to imagine and recreate roles and experiences in play situations.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Links statements and sticks to a main theme or intention.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Uses talk to organise, sequence and clarify thinking, ideas, feelings and events.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Introduces a storyline or narrative into their play.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Encourage language play, e.g. through stories such as ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ and action songs that require intonation.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)