3.3y–5y10 minMusicFree playQuiet time
Nonsense Rhyme Lab
A joyful sound-and-word play session using nonsense rhymes, silly substitutions, and rhythm to encourage experimentation with words and sounds.
What you'll need
Essentials
- your voice and hands for clapping/tapping
- 3 household objects that make different sounds when tapped (e.g., cup, box, spoon)
Nice to have
- paper and pen for drawing a ‘silly word list’
- a favourite familiar rhyme (optional)
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
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 children to experiment with words and sounds, e.g. in nonsense rhymes.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)