Playtime Rhymes for the Very Young

A selection of 22 finger-plays and action rhymes, both traditional and contemporary, pleasantly illustrated and accompanied by photographs of the actions performed by children and parents from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. At first glance this seems a good idea as the photographic sequences are easier to follow while reading the rhyme than a written instruction would be. However many of the rhymes selected are extremely well-known (eg. 'This Little Pig'), and others difficult to illustrate in this way (eg. 'Jelly on a Plate'). The combination of drawings and photographs make the pages cluttered and potentially confusing to small children --- although youngsters often respond well to photographs of other children which might give a stimulus to repeating the rhymes. I can see a place for this book on a parents' bookshelf at the library or at toddler group or playgroup, especially where parents are unfamiliar with traditional rhymes, but it is unlikely to be comprehensive enough for playgroup leaders themselves to use.