Fingerplays or finger rhymes are children's rhymes, stories or songs with hand or finger actions to accompany the words. They can make a rhyme or story more engaging and memorable by activating not only a child's auditory learning skills, but her kinesthetic learning skills as well. They can help children memorize poetry, get a feel for rhymes and rhythm in language, develop their fine motor skills, and learn new words. They can also just be a fun new way to experience familiar nursery rhymes. Try integrating one or two fingerplays during your story times at home. To spark your imagination and get you started, check out some of these collections of fingerplays and rhymes from your Santa Clara County Library.
Little Hands Fingerplays & Action Songs
The Complete Book of Rhymes, Songs, Poems, Fingerplays, and Chants
Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes
Cabeza, Hombros, Piernas et Pies
DiDiez Deditos, Dos Manitas / Ten Little Finders, Two Small Hands
101 Fingerplays, Stories, and Songs to Use With Finger Puppets
First Verses, Finger Rhymes, Counting Rhymes, Action Rhymes, Changing Rhymes
