Play games that involve music and movement to help your child develop beginning reading skills like listening and speaking. Make up a chant like Shake, Shake, Shake, or use an old favorite such as Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes. Songs with simple directions encourage the use of actions with words.
- Shake, Shake, Shake (lyrics and actions shown below)
- Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes (lyrics are available online)
Step 1: Choose a movement song or chant to do with your toddler. Stand with your toddler facing you and invite him to sing the song with you and to imitate your movements.
Step 2: Begin the chant or song. Here’s an example:
We are going to sing our song and move our bodies. Watch me and you do what I do.
Were gonna shake, shake, shake (shake your hands back and forth or shake hands with your child)
And wiggle, wiggle, wiggle (wiggle your whole body)
And bounce, bounce, bounce (bounce up and down)
Touch your toes (bend over and touch your toes)
Now your nose (touch your nose)
Touch your toes (bend over and touch your toes)
Now your nose (touch your nose)
Step 3: Repeat the song if he is interested. Then, try another favorite song.
