Action rhymes serve many functions in early childhood education. They develop speaking and listening skills, particularly awareness of rhyme and rhythm, and early drama skills, such as role-play. They develop motor skills and serve as lesson breaks. They can be used to gain attention. They develop the students' awareness of their bodies and link them to the world around them.

Action rhymes lead the student along the path to literacy and better self-awareness.
Information and activities are included with each rhyme to extend the students' enjoyment and experience, as well as developing their knowledge of Australian creatures and places.

The rhymes and associated information and activities may also be adapted as source material for such activities as classroom discussion and school assembly items.