Tips on running a Rhymetime session
Working with groups
There are lots of familiar songs and rhymes on our Bookstart CD and super new ones to learn.
Begin with the ones you know. Then add some new rhymes later as the group becomes more established.
Keep the session to around 20 minutes.
A basic running order might be: familiar rhymes, action rhymes, rhymes using props and puppets. Don't worry about repeating rhymes as children enjoy repetition and it helps to build confidence. Encourage the grown ups to join in.
You could provide word sheets for parents and carers so they can practice at home too!
- Begin each session with a special song. It marks a definite beginning to the rhymetime and helps call everyone together at the start.
- Half way through, ask if anyone has a birthday so you can sing to them.
- Try to get men to come to the sessions too. If you make them feel welcome, they will come again. Rhymes and songs are not only for the mummies!
- Ask parents to share their favourite rhymes with the group. You may get suggestions for rhymes and songs from other countries that you can learn together and add to your repertoire.
- If your rhymetime is in a library, don't forget to invite the families to join as members and remind them that you can borrow books for free.
- Leading a session is thirsty work so keep a bottle of water at hand, preferably one with a sports cap top so it won't spill.
- At the end of the session, sing your special Bookstart song and get everyone to say 'Goodbye' to each other and ' See you next time'.
Most of all, have fun!
Order a copy
Bookstart Rhymetimes Book and CD-Rom
£10.50 inc VAT
Cat. Ref. CDBOOK
Available in English
Please use the standard booking form.