Cumulative Songs for Children
A cumulative song grows each time a new item or event is added. Practise the first verse, then add one picture card for every new part. Point to the cards in the order the song repeats them.
Let a leader sing the new part and invite everyone to join the parts they already know. For a first session, stop after three additions. When children are comfortable, hide one of the picture cards and see if the group can remember it.
This Is the House That Jack Built
Build the chain with picture cards. Link the newest picture back to the house each time.
Today Is Monday
Use a row of day cards. Walk backwards along them as the verse recalls earlier days.
There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly
Make an animal stack and point from the newest animal back to the fly. Preview the darkly comic ending for your group.
The Green Grass Grew All Around
Draw the tree, branch and nest as they appear. Let the group repeat the chain while you point to the drawing.
The Twelve Days of Christmas
Assign a group to each gift. Practise the first three days before building a longer sequence.
Where to Go Next
- Days of the week rhymes: Practise a different kind of sequence.
- Christmas songs and carols: Choose a festive song to follow the Twelve Days.