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News
The “Self-Care Stretch” was seen in a cool new place—do you know where this is?
Every one of my programs begins with the “Self-Care Stretch.”
One, two, three, stretch with me.
[Reach arms up to ceiling or sky.]
Four, five, six, bend like this.
[Reach down to toes.]
Seven, eight, nine, it’s jumping time.
[Jump or bounce up and down.]
Ten, eleven, twelve, let’s hug ourselves!
[Wraps arms around self and squeeze.]
Why do I do this action rhyme every time? Here are seven good reasons!
- Vocabulary. The language in this rhyme is backed by movement that demonstrates meaning.
- Phonological awareness. The rhythm and pace of the rhyme slow down the words and draw attention to the sounds within them.
- Number sense. We’re counting up in groups of three.
- Up to 12. Many children’s rhymes stop counting at 5 or 10, but this rhyme goes all the way up to 12.
- Whole body movement. Moving the body activates the mind, and this rhyme engages the whole body.
- Self-care. Movement and stretching promote wellness. This rhyme makes it easy and fun.
- Self-confidence. It all ends with a big self-hug, sending an important message of self-appreciation and love.
Are there other benefits you can think of to doing the “Self-Care Stretch” in story time? Tell us in the comments!
Give Your Input – Where should the “Self-Care Stretch” go next?
Quote of the Week
My deep love and care for children doesn’t end at my children, at children I know, at children in this country. It is for all children in this world.
Rachel Accurso
Featured Creator
My featured creator this week needs no introduction—it’s Ms. Rachel!
Rachel Accurso, aka Ms. Rachel, has been using her platform to speak up for the children of Gaza. In this interview with Geoff Bennett on PBS News, Ms. Rachel says many things that resonate with me.
Such as …
“We can’t let children starve. That is not who we are.”
And …
“Everyone should be saying something.”
Yes. So let me say something too.
As an early childhood professional, I work hard to welcome every child and caregiver to my programs. Every child means every child. No exceptions. There aren’t some children who deserve story time and some who don’t. And there isn’t a single child in this world that deserves to be harmed. There is no good reason—no justification—for harming children.
We, the grownups, have the power to guarantee human rights to every child. As the taxpayers and the voters, we can hold our leaders accountable. We can demand better policies.
So I hope you will take inspiration from Ms. Rachel, as I have, to find what it is that you want to say—and the courage to say it.
Thank you, and “Brava!” Ms. Rachel.
Stay Tuned for Important Dates
In August 2025, Sing, Rhyme, and Play moved abroad. Stay tuned for news about future events and performances in our new home.
In the meantime, please enjoy our streaming music and videos—and these photos of an axolotl yawning.
Final Thoughts
We’re so glad you came! Until next time …
◊ Comment below and share this blog.
◊ Listen to SR&P on Apple Music, Spotify, or any streaming platform.
◊ Visit Storytime Solidarity.
◊ Tell us what topics you’d like to see.
◊ Be the world we want for our kids!
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Sing, Rhyme, and Play 
Niagara Falls for sure!
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