Two Little Dicky Birds sitting on a wall,
One called Peter, one called Paul.
Fly away Peter, fly away Paul,
Come back Peter, come back Paul.
This rhyme is an old favourite that can be introduced to young children who respond to finger play and are starting to imitate actions.
Rhyme time
Begin the rhyme with your forefinger of each hand extended and your palms facing the child. Then:
Two Little Dicky Birds sitting on a wall - wiggle both your fingers up and down
One called Peter - wiggle just your right finger
One called Paul - wiggle your left finger
Fly away Peter - hide your right hand behind your back
Fly away Paul - hide your left hand
Come back Peter - bring your right hand back
Come back Paul - bring your left hand back.
Extension ideas
- Once the children are comfortable with the rhyme, play with the words and introduce familiar names, for example, 'One called Chantelle, one called Noel'. It doesn't matter if the names don't rhyme; the rhythm is more important.
- Share the rhyme using bird finger puppets. There are commercially produced versions, but they can be made easily from card. Just print out images of birds from clip-art on the internet, or draw two birds on card. Then fix the pictures on to two rings of card which fit on the forefinger of each hand.
- This rhyme will be particularly popular with children who already enjoy games of 'peek-a-boo', so take the opportunity to develop this game. Extend the usual hiding your eyes behind your hands, to hiding behind scarves, jumpers, favourite toys or even furniture, such as a table. Remember to call 'peek-a-boo' as you make eye contact!
- Judith Stevens is an early years adviser in London.
