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 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 Bookstart Rhymetimes session 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!
Special offer
Bookstart Rhymetimes Book and CD-Rom
The Bookstart Rhymetimes book consists of a superb CD and A4 book produced by Booktrust with the support of a number of very talented Bookstart coordinators from around the country.
It is ideal for Bookstart Rhyme and Story Time events in all sorts of settings and in the home too.
The full-colour booklet comes complete with advice and ideas on how to make the most of stories, songs and rhymes.
Price
Code: PU CD BOOK
£10.50 inc VAT
Discounted cost to schemes will be £6.00 for quantities of over 20
Special offer - 60 CD & Books for £235.00