Nursery World - Enabling Environments: Let's explore ... Poetry, rhyme and song outdoors

Poetry is portable in these suggestions for learning, sharing and having fun from Helen Bromley.

The wonderful thing about poetry is that once you have it in your head, you can take it outdoors whatever the weather, wherever and whenever you want! A poem, like a song, is a little piece of language that children can carry round with them in their heads, wherever they go. It is eminently transportable. A favourite poem will never fade in the sun, it won't blow away in the wind and it certainly won't get wet; it is the ultimate outdoor resource for literacy!

Poetry and outdoor play have been linked for centuries. The oral tradition began outdoors, and for many adults the poetry of the street was an integral part of childhood. Once gently prompted, adults tend to remember a wide collection of poetry which usually includes a range of counting-out rhymes, skipping games, songs to be sung in a circle, playground games and rhymes associated with playing ball.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included