0mo–11mo8 minQuiet timeSelf-careBath time
Hand, Foot, Cheek Rhymes
A gentle rhyme-and-touch routine where you makes up simple songs while pointing to or softly stroking your child’s hands, feet, and cheeks, pausing often to follow your child’s cues.
What you'll need
Essentials
- your hands
- a safe, comfortable place for your child to be supported (your arms/lap, or a blanket on the floor)
- a soft cloth or muslin
Nice to have
- a favourite soft toy
- a small amount of baby-safe moisturiser you already use (only if this is a normal part of your routine)
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
- MilestoneEnjoys the company of others and seeks contact with others from birth.Heart· 0mo–11mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneLaughs during social playHeart· 3mo–6mo· core
- MilestoneMakes early non-cry soundsMind· 0mo–3mo· core· Step 3
- MilestoneBids to keep adult attentionHeart· 3mo–5mo· core
- MilestoneGestures wants or needsMind· 10mo–2.3y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestonePoints and gazes to share attentionHeart· 8mo–2y· stretch
What it practices
- Responds to and thrives on warm, sensitive physical contactObservable behaviour from Development Matters
- Laughs and gurgles, e.g. shows pleasure at being tickled and other physical interactions.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Expresses discomfort, hunger or thirst.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Say or sing made-up rhymes or songs while stroking or pointing to the babies’ hands, feet or cheeks.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)