Parent Tot Activity: Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes

Name

Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes (Water Version)

Core Skill

Body awareness, water comfort, and following simple instructions while seated on the pool wall.

Who

Parent-tot pairs. Child sits on the wall; parent stands in the water facing the child.

What

Sing the classic song “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” while touching or splashing the corresponding body parts on the child. The parent leads the actions in time with the lyrics.

How

1. Child sits securely on the pool wall. Parent stands in the water directly in front of the child.
2. Sing the song at a comfortable pace: “Head, shoulders, knees, and toes, knees and toes…”
3. As you sing each body part, touch that part on the child with your hand or give a gentle splash of water on that area.
4. Repeat the song several times, gradually increasing speed or adding extra verses (e.g., “eyes and ears and mouth and nose”).
5. Encourage the child to touch their own body parts as they become familiar with the song.

Difficulties Instructors Might Face

1. Some children may be sensitive to water on their face. Use gentle splashes or a cupped hand to drip water instead.
2. Younger toddlers may not yet know body parts—point and name them clearly each time.
3. If the child is distracted, keep the song short and upbeat. Use exaggerated facial expressions to hold attention.

Song: Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes

Child seated on the wall. Parent in the water.Sing while touching your head and shoulders while you match lyrics.Touch child’s “head,” and “shoulders” with hands or splashes in tune to the lyrics.