Reading is one of the most important skills parents can instill in their children. From even before birth, parents will start searching libraries, family collections, and the internet for the best stories to read to their children.
Years of Rhyme
Nursery rhymes have been around for many many years and can really teach children quite a lot more than most parents even realize. There is a reason that nursery rhymes are so well receieved by children and why they continue to be one of the most important lessons a child will receive. With histories from old stories, sayings and songs, each nursery rhyme has a rich background.
Moving to Rhyme
For young children there is nothing as stimulating as hearing the rhyming of words mixed with music, bright colors, and for internet videos, seeing other children reacting and dancing to the rhyme. This kind of repetitive motion teaches children many things. Reactions to vary by child but each is unique and teaching children valuable lessons in fine and gross motor skills.
1-2-3 Rhyme
Eeny, meeny, miney, mo is one rhymes that is stuck in the head of most adults. From the time most adults were young it was a way parents would use to choose anything from a toy to an article of clothing. “Catch a tiger by the toe, if he hollers, let him go, eeny, meeny, miney, mo!”, and as each word was an item whatever you landed on for mo was your choice. For the very young it seemed like a fun and fair way to make a choice. This kind of logic works for young children and can alleviate the frustration that can come from making tough decisions. The background of this rhyme is one that can date back to the 1800’s or even further back as it is similar to counting rhymes from other cultures. This rhyme is a great way to start the process of counting.
Sing, Sing a Rhyme
The lyrics in a rhyme can soothe, excite, or can become a nightly ritual that teaches by repetition. Twinkle, twinkle little star is a favorite of many families and has been passed from parent to child for years. The song was written by Jane Taylor in the 19th century as a poem. It is much longer than the one sung today but for young children it is the perfect length to remember. The original meaning of the poem talks about helping the traveller find his way by the light of the star.
What’s the Importance?
Using words that rhyme in a musical way that incorporates movements or rituals are all a lesson taught to a child. It is a wonderful way to teach a child about the world around them. There is nothing more intriguing to a child than learning in a way that seems more like play.