Nursery Rhymes III: Teach Coordination, Social Skills, and Music!

Let's Play Music
Aug 21
2 min read

Updated: Sep 12

Welcome to the final post in our nursery rhyme series! If you missed Part I (Speech and Vocabulary) or Part II (Reading and Math), check them out first. Plus, there’s a bonus prize for reading all three parts—keep going!

Coordination

In the Sound Beginnings program, we incorporate movement and finger plays that boost both fine and gross motor skills. For example, jumping over a candle like Jack Be Nimble or using finger movements to count in One, Two, Three, Four, Five helps children develop coordination. Speaking and acting out rhymes also strengthens oral function, tongue movements, and vocal cord muscles. And coordinating actions with rhythm builds neural pathways for whole-body control.

Social Skills

Reciting rhymes together fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens social connections. When children chant or sing with others, they feel safe and part of the group. Belonging is a key part of the human experience. Simple games like Ring Around the Rosie help children connect with peers and parents through physical touch, i.e., holding hands, clapping, dancing, or hugging.

Rhymes also provide an opportunity for emotional expression and imaginative play, helping children understand and label emotions. Ask your child some questions about the rhymes they know (like these examples below). You'll be surprised and delighted by their answers.

Why did the little dog laugh when he saw the cow jump over the moon?
How would you feel if you saw Jack and Jill fall down the hill?
Why do the two little blackbirds stay together?

Music

Nursery rhymes lay the foundation for musical skills by helping children develop control over their voices, learn rhythm, and improve body coordination. Chanting rhymes with a steady beat, then adding words and rhythm, builds essential skills for music. Children who engage with rhymes will be well prepared to excel in music!