Good Listening (EYFS)

Inside Good Listening (EYFS)

listen carefully to sounds and stories, guess the animal and everyday sounds, look at the grown-up who is talking, follow simple one-step and two-step instructions, and play Simon Says and a sound hunt together. About 45 minutes.

Learning objectives

• listen carefully to sounds, stories and simple instructions;
• recognise the sounds around us — animals, vehicles and everyday noises;
• pay attention and look at the person who is speaking;
• follow simple one-step and two-step instructions in the right order;
• enjoy listening games such as Simon Says and a home sound hunt.

Activities in this book

1. Play 1 — Good Listening Ears

   sit close and cosy together. Ask your child to make their "good listening ears" — point to your ears, then look at each other. There are no wrong answers here, just gentle noticing.

2. Play 2 — Sounds All Around

   make each sound together first — moo like a cow, woof like a dog! Then let your child point to the answer. If they are not sure, make the animal noise again and giggle together.

3. Play 3 — Simon Says

   say the actions slowly and clearly, and do them together at first. Only do the action when you hear "Simon says". This game helps little ones listen right to the end before they move.

4. Play 4 — Listen and Do

   start with one little instruction, then try two joined together ("clap your hands, then touch your nose"). Say it once, gently, and give your child time to remember and do it.

5. Play 5 — Our Sound Hunt at Home

   sounds are everywhere at home — the kettle, the clock, a tap, birds outside. Go on a gentle hunt together and cup your ears like little bunnies to hear them.

Suggestions for teaching

• Keep it playful. These are games to share, not a test. Sit close, smile, and follow your child's lead — there is no pass or fail.
• Make the sounds together. Moo, woof, beep! Making the noises first helps children match a sound to its animal or object.
• Model good looking. Gently remind your child to look at whoever is talking — it helps them tune in and listen.
• Build up slowly. Start with one instruction, then try two joined together only when your child is ready.
• Notice everyday sounds. Pause during the day to say “what can you hear?” — in the car, in the bath, in the garden.