From Giggles to God: The Power of Nursery Rhyme
World Nursery Rhyme Week (10–14 November) celebrates the vital role rhymes play in early childhood development. At Ashtead Parish, nursery rhymes are a joyful and meaningful part of our weekly toddler groups—‘Little Kid’s Praise’ on Mondays at 10am at The Dell, and ‘Little Kid’s Play’ and ‘Baby Play’ on Wednesdays at 10am at St George’s.
Singing with movement and actions helps children build vocabulary, confidence and coordination. As kids’ team volunteer Sarah Boswell shares, “Repeating favourite songs helps to develop children’s vocabulary in a fun and engaging way.” Our sessions often include signing to make rhymes more accessible and name-based songs to foster a sense of belonging. “Simple language helps the children to retain and recognise the language.” Adds Lucy Townsend, a registered childminder and volunteer. “The confidence in children develops from tiny babies to big toddlers. They go from sitting close to their parents, to joining in with all of the actions, participating in turn-taking, sharing instruments and joining in group-wide actions”
Another of our volunteers, Affy Light, reflects, “Rhymes and songs wrap big ideas in small packages. Their repetition and melody make spiritual concepts like kindness, creation or God’s love — in ways that feel playful and safe.” Kelly Eccles adds, “Singing brings joy, resets emotions and helps children engage with the messages of the rhyme”
From action songs like ‘If You’re Happy and You Know It’ to our closing prayer rhyme, ‘Thank you God for everything’, these simple verses carry deep spiritual and emotional meaning. Whether sung solo or in a circle, rhymes connect generations and hearts.
Pre-schoolers and their carers are warmly invited to join our toddler groups each week. Come rediscover the joy of rhyme—and meet our wonderful kids’ team! Further details can be found HERE.
Thank you to Jaynie Kendall, our Leader of 0-18 Ministry, and her team of volunteers, including Sarah Boswell, Kelly Eccles, Affy Light and Lucy Townsend, for their valuable contributions!