Materials
photographs of the children
Instructions
1. To grab children's attention when it is time for group or circle time, begin
reciting favorite fingerplays, after announcing that it is time to gather on the
rug, or for children to take their seats.
2. Begin saying the poems in the normal voice with appropriate gestures.
3. Continue reviewing familiar fingerplays, lowering your voice until you are
just humming tune or word syllables. As the children continue to follow your
lead, "say" the last familiar or favorite fingerplays, using only gestures.
4. End the ritual with a silent clap, by hugging yourself, or by pointing to your
eyes and ears to signal "watch and listen."
5. If the child is not "showing you her eyes," whisper her name, and point to
your eyes and ears.
More to do Using hand signs to communicate is extremely effective for young children.
They like the mystery involved with knowing a secret sign. Recommended
signs include ones for stop, dangerous, listen, thank you, and take your seats.
