Waiata, rhymes and fingerplay

Why do it?

Singing provides a rich experience — tune, rhythm, harmony, movement, language and culture — all enhancing the development of connections in baby’s brain.
Singing is also a fun way of repeating an experience, which makes brain pathways stronger.
Singing releases endorphins (‘feel good’ hormones), which benefit baby and whānau.
When whānau sing with baby it strengthens their relationship.

Sing anywhere and anytime.
Sing in your family’s language(s).
Make up songs to accompany your daily activities — for example, you can sing a nappy-changing song to the tune of ‘Here we go round the mulberry bush’: ‘This is the way we… ‘change a nap’ ‘clean that bottom’ ‘put on powder’ ‘do up the flaps’ ‘have a cuddle’.
Try some finger rhymes — maybe you remember ones from your childhood? ‘Round and round the garden’ is an old school favourite.