Sharing Songs and Rhymes with Your Child

Why do I share songs and rhymes with my child?

  • Babies and young children love the sound of your voice and the comfort of hearing something familiar.
  • They also enjoy the rhythm and repetition in songs and rhymes.
  • Sharing songs and rhymes can play an important part in your child’s listening and language development.
  • You’ll have lots of fun together.

Where and when can I share songs and rhymes with my child?

  • Songs and rhymes can be shared any time of the day.  You might both enjoy songs at bath time, or when changing your baby’s nappy.
  • You can go along to Bookbug at your local library, or PEEP groups that run in your local community.
  • At first you might suggest songs and rhymes for your child.  Your child will soon be able to let you know when they want to sing with you by using a sound or action from a favourite song.

How do I share songs and rhymes with my child?

  • You can use actions when you sing to your child. Sometimes toys or books can link with a favourite song too.
  • Sit face to face with your child so you can see how they react to the rhyme or song.
  • When your child joins in, show you have noticed by giving lots of encouragement.
  • You can change the words of a song or rhyme to whatever you want.  Sometimes adding familiar names to a song can be fun.

What songs and rhymes can I share with my child?

  • Use songs that you enjoy.  Maybe something you have heard on the radio. If you enjoy it, your child will too.
  • You may remember some action songs and nursery rhymes from when you were young.
  • You can visit your local library and borrow CDs and books with rhymes.