Rhyming Shyming

There are some experts who will tell you that the ability to rhyme is the be all and end all in learning to read.  While I don't think it's THE complete answer it does play a critical part in learning to read.  Some of these same experts will also tell you that the ability to rhyme is very easy.  It is for most children but there are a few who struggle with rhyming.  For those children, many times it involves a deeper issue.

But, for most children rhyming is fun and easy.   The easiest way to introduce your child to rhyming is singing rhyming songs or nursery rhymes.  It doesn't even have to be formal.   This morning while walking with Miss Lola as we chatted I would say rhyming pairs.   For example, I said, I see the sky, sky - bye.  Look at the tree, tree - bee.  Now I am well aware that at 21 months Lola doesn't understand rhyming words.   But she does understand the lilt in my voice when I say rhyming words.  I am 'planting' the idea of rhyme in her brain.   When she is a little bit older, I can then attach the statement, "those words rhyme."

I believe one of the most important benefits of exposing children to rhyme is letting them hear and experience the playfulness of language.  We don't worry if the words are spelled differently, that will come later.

Below are some websites with nursery rhymes:
nurseryrhymes.com
mothergooseclub
nursery rhymes and silly stuff

A few good rhyming books:
There's a Wocket in my Pocket and any other Dr. Seuss books
Read-Aloud Rhymes for the Very Young, Jack Prelutsky

Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae

For kids, the sillier the better.  After reading ask, which words rhyme, sounded the same at the end? With second readings, let your child provide the rhyming word.