Nursery Rhymes

We love our copy of Scott Gustafson's beautifully illustrated Favorite Nursery Rhymes from Mother Goose, and perhaps the loving inscription on the inside of the front cover made by a dear grandmother makes it even sweeter! We delight in reading nursery rhymes, and the wonderful paintings that accompany this lovely collection truly set this book apart from the rest. 

There is so much to glean from the reading of nursery rhymes, and what sweet memories we have made with our oldest in sharing these lovely literary charms. Now what a joy it is to begin sharing these with our six-month-old little girl as well!

While the simple pleasures of reading together and reciting these lovely poems and songs are priceless, the developmental aspects that accompany the reading of nursery rhymes make this activity truly worthwhile! Here are a few things that I like to keep in mind when reading nursery rhymes:

1. Nursery rhymes serve as a wonderful introduction to classic tales. Some nursery rhymes have been around for quite some time, and what a benefit it is to develop a taste for traditional literature during the early years. The richness of the classic language, the rhythm of the poems, the choice of vocabulary, and the use of expressions from long ago make nursery rhymes both amusing and educational.

2. The rhythmic nature of these delightful poems and songs makes these a perfect introduction to beginning language skills. The predictable sequences and anticipated rhythm of sounds can enhance the early use of sounds and sentence patterns, as well as build reading skills later on.

3. These rhyming sequences are usually easy for little ones to remember, providing opportunities to enhance their memory skills.

4. The funny and oftentimes nonsensical themes make nursery rhymes a wonderful source for imaginative play. Think of Humpty Dumpty, Jack and Jill, or Hickory Dickory Dock--what fun these can be for a little mind to ponder and to incorporate into their play!

What fun nursery rhymes are! And what a joy they are to remember and recite together as you go about your day. I remember some time ago our oldest daughter was keeping me company as I tended to the laundry one evening. We had such fun reciting "Little Jack Horner," adding variations to the nursery rhyme and giggling as we did so. Perhaps Little Jack Horner was eating his yogurt, peach pie, or hamburger when he stuck in his thumb! What a joy it is to remember the precious sounds of her laughter!

Here's a great article about the potential benefits of reading nursery rhymes to your child: http://wikiparenting.parentsconnect.com/wiki/Nursery_Rhyme_Benefits