Nursery rhyme and song appeal to the sheer joy found in the sound of words. For generations, children’s lives have been enriched from a wealth of rhymes and songs that were orally passed down.
There are a host of developmental benefits when you create a language-rich environment at home for your child. Nursery rhyme and song are right at the top of the list for how you can do just that. They are the launch pad into early language development and literacy! Learn more about the benefits of nursery rhymes here.
At Ox & Owl Literacy, we are passionate about the powerful way nursery rhymes, song, and music positively impact early development, especially when cultivated with enthusiasm, playfulness, and positive interaction.
That is why we created this list of nursery rhyme and children’s song favourites. It is here for you to refer to whenever you need some inspiration or reminders about the amazing selection of language goodies you can give to your child in their early years.Putting this list together was a trip down memory lane and a lot of fun! Rhyme and song have a way of awakening the little child in all of us. We hope it does the same for you, and helps you create incredible bonding moments with your child while enjoying the simple joy and often, silliness, these rhymes and songs can create.
A child’s mind is not a container to be filled but rather a fire to be kindled
–Dorothea BrandeNursery Rhymes & Children’s SongsA-HA Wise Old OwlA Cat Came Fiddling Out of a BarnA Ram Sam SamA Sailor Went to Sea, Sea, SeaA Tisket, A TasketAlice the CamelAlle Meine EntchenAlouetteAlphabet Song (The ABC’s)Are You Sleeping?(Brother John)Baa Baa Black SheepBingo Was His Name-OBoys and Girls Come Out to PlayBubble Gum, Bubble GumDaisy Bell (Bicycle Built For Two)Dance to Your DaddyDo Your Ears Hang LowDown By The BayEeny, Meeny, Miny, MoeFive Green Speckled FrogsFive Little DucksFive Little Monkeys Jumping on the BedFor He’s a Jolly Good FellowFrère JacquesGrand Old Duke of YorkHey Diddle DiddleHead, Shoulders, Knees, and ToesHickory Dickory DockHiggledy PiggledyHumpty DumptyHush Little BabyI-QI See the Moon and the Moon Sees MeI’m a Little TeapotI’ve Been Working on the RailroadIf You’re Happy and You Know ItIt’s Raining, It’s PouringItsy Bitsy SpiderJack and JillJack Be NimbleJerry HallJohn Jacob Jingleheimer SchmidtKeep on the Sunny SideK-I-S-S-I-N-GLittle Miss MuffetLittle Poll ParrotMary Had a Little LambMary, Mary, Quite ContraryMolly My SisterMy Bonnie Lies Over the OceanOats, Peas, Beans and Barley GrowOh Where, Oh Where Has My Little Dog GoneOld King ColeOld MacDonald Had a FarmOne, Two, Three, Four, FiveOver the River and Through the WoodsPat-a-CakePop! Goes the WeaselPussycat, PussycatQueen of HeartsR-ZRain, Rain Go AwayRock a Bye BabyRound and Round the GardenRow, Row, Row Your BoatRub-a-Dub-DubSimple SimonSing, Sing, What Shall I Sing?Skip To My LouStar Light, Star BrightStella Ella OllaTeddy Bear, Teddy BearTeddy Bears PicnicTen In a BedThe Ants Go MarchingThe Farmer in the DellThe Hokey PokeyThe More We Get TogetherThe Muffin ManThe Mulberry BushThe Snail and the MouseThe Wheels on the BusThere Was an Old Woman Who Swallowed a FlyThis Little PiggyThis Old ManThree Blind MiceThree Blue PigeonsTwinkle Twinkle Little StarTwo Little Dicky BirdsWe’re Going on a Bear HuntWhere is Thumbkin?Yankee DoodleZoom, Zoom, Zoom, We’re Going to the MoonVocabulary Quest
Word: SnuggleMeaning: to get cozy with someone or something you love, like giving a big, warm hug or cuddling up with a soft blanket or stuffed animal.
Ex: All the penguins waddled into a group huddle, declaring it a “snuggle shuffle” to stay warm on the ice.
Curious Queries Corner?
Stir up your learner’s imagination and create some conversation and connection by asking an unusual question.
Would you rather have spaghetti hair you can eat anytime or rainbow fingers that change colors when you wiggle them?
A Wise Old OwlBaa Baa Black SheepA Cat Came Fiddling Out of a BarnA cat came fiddling out of a barn,With a pair of bagpipes under her arm;She could sing nothing but fiddle-de-dee,The mouse has married the bumblebee.Pipe, cat; dance, mouse;We’ll have a wedding at our good house.
A Ram Sam Sam(A modified Moroccan Rhyme)A ram sam sam, a ram sam sam,Guli guli guli guli guli ram sam sam.A ram sam sam, a ram sam sam,Guli guli guli guli guli ram sam sam.A rafiq, a rafiq,Guli guli guli guli, ram sam sam.A rafiq, a rafiq,Guli guli guli guli, ram sam sam.
A Sailor Went to Sea, Sea, SeaA sailor went to sea, sea, sea,To see what he could see, see, see.But all that he could see, see, see,Was the bottom of the deep blue sea, sea, sea.
A Tisket, A TasketA-tisket, a-tasketA green and yellow basketI wrote a letter to my loveAnd on the way I dropped itI dropped itI dropped itYes, on the way I dropped itA little boy he picked it upand put it in his pocket.
Alice the CamelAlice the camel has 5 humps,Alice the camel has 5 humps,Alice the camel has 5 humps.So go, Alice, go!
Boom, boom, boom, boom!Alice the camel has 4 humps,Alice the camel has 4 humps,Alice the camel has 4 humps.So go, Alice, go!Boom, boom, boom, boom!
Alice the camel has 3 humps,Alice the camel has 3 humps,Alice the camel has 3 humps.So go, Alice, go!Boom, boom, boom, boom!
Alice the camel has 2 humps,Alice the camel has 2 humps,Alice the camel has 2 humps.So go, Alice, go!Boom, boom, boom, boom!
Alice the camel has 1 hump,Alice the camel has 1 hump,Alice the camel has 1 hump.So go, Alice, go!Boom, boom, boom, boom!
Alice the camel has NO humps,Alice the camel has NO humps,Alice the camel has NO humps.‘Cause Alice is a HORSE,Of course!
Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.
-Fred RogerOx & Owl LiteracyAlle Meine Entchen(Classic German Rhyme)Alle meine Entchen,Schwimmen auf dem See,Schwimmen auf dem See,Köpfchen in das Wasser,Schwänzchen in die Höh.
AlouetteAlouette, gentille alouette,Alouette, je te plumerai.Je te plumerai la tête. ×2Et la tête! ×2Alouette! ×2A-a-a-ah
Alphabet Song(The ABC’s)A B C D E F GH I J K L M N O PQ R ST U VW XY and ZNow I know my ABCs,Next time won’t you sing with me.
Are You Sleeping?Are you sleeping? Are you sleeping?Brother John, Brother John,Morning bells are ringing! Morning bells are ringing!Ding, dang, dong. Ding, dang, dong.
Bingo Was His Name-OThere was a farmer who had a dog,And Bingo was his name-O.B-I-N-G-O!B-I-N-G-O!B-I-N-G-O!And Bingo was his name-O!
There was a farmer who had a dog,And Bingo was his name-O.(Clap)-I-N-G-O!(Clap)-I-N-G-O!(Clap)-I-N-G-O!And Bingo was his name-O!
There was a farmer who had a dog,And Bingo was his name-O!(Clap – Clap)-N-G-O!(Clap – Clap)-N-G-O!(Clap – Clap)-N-G-O!And Bingo was his name-O!
There was a farmer who had a dog,And Bingo was his name-O.(Clap – Clap – Clap)-G-O!(Clap – Clap – Clap)-G-O!(Clap – Clap – Clap)-G-O!And Bingo was his name-O!
There was a farmer who had a dog,And Bingo was his name-O.(Clap – Clap – Clap – Clap)-O!(Clap – Clap – Clap – Clap)-O!(Clap – Clap – Clap – Clap)-O!And Bingo was his name-O!
There was a farmer who had a dog,And Bingo was his name-O.(Clap – Clap – Clap – Clap – Clap)(Clap – Clap – Clap – Clap – Clap)(Clap – Clap – Clap – Clap – Clap)And Bingo was his name-O!
Bubble Gum, Bubble GumBubble gum, bubble gum, in a dish,How many pieces do you wish?Five.One, two, three, four, five.And you are out.
Daisy Bell(Bicycle Built for Two)Daisy, Daisy give me your answer do.I’m half crazy all for the love of you.It won’t be a stylish marriage,I can’t afford a carriage.But you’ll look sweet,Upon the seat,Of a bicycle made for two.
Michael, Micheal, here is your answer true.I’m not crazy all for the love of you.There won’t be any marriage,If you can’t afford a carriage.‘Cause I’ll be switched,If I get hitched,On a bicycle built for two!”
Dance to Your DaddyDance to your daddy, my little laddyDance to your daddy, my little lambYou shall have a fishy on a little dishyYou shall have a fishy when the boat comes in
Dance to your daddy, my little lassyDance to your daddy, my little lambYou shall have a fishy on a little dishyYou shall have a fishy when the boat comes in
Do Your Ears Hang LowDo your ears hang low?Do they wobble to and fro?Can you tie ’em in a knot?Can you tie ’em in a bow?Can you throw ’em o’er your shoulderLike a continental soldier?Do your ears hang low?
Down By the BayDown by the bay, Where the watermelons growBack to my home, I dare not goFor if I do My mother will say:Did you ever see a bear, combing his hair?(Say the rhyme, then repeat)
Did you ever see a goat riding in a boat?Did you ever see a whale, with a polka dot tail?Did you ever see a duck driving a pickup truck?Did you ever see a snake baking a cake?Did you ever see a fly, wearing a tie?Did you ever see a bee, with a sunburnt knee?Did you ever see a mouse, holding up a house?Did you ever see a llama, eating his pajamas?Did you ever see a rat wearing a hat?Did you ever see a goose drinking apple juice?Did you ever see a cow with only one eyebrow?Did you ever see a moose with a loose front tooth?Did you ever see a fox, hiding in a box?
Engage your mind in the bliss of wonder
– Lailah Gifty AkitaOx & Owl Literacy Eeny, Meeny, Miny, MoEeny, meeny, miny, moe,Catch a piggy by the toe.If he hollers let him go!Eeny, meeny, miny, moe.
Eeny, meeny, miny, moe,Catch a tiger by the toe.If he hollers let him go!Eeny, meeny, miny, moe.
Eeny, meeny, miny, moe,Catch a tiger by the toe.If he hollers let him go!Eeny, meeny, miny, moe.
Five Green Speckled FrogsFive little speckled frogsSat on a speckled logEating some most delicious grubs – yum, yumOne jumped into the poolWhere it was nice and coolNow there are four green speckled frogs – glub, glub.
Four little speckled frogsSat on a speckled logEating some most delicious grubs – yum, yumOne jumped into the poolWhere it was nice and coolNow there are three green speckled frogs – glub, glub.
Three little speckled frogsSat on a speckled logEating some most delicious grubs – yum, yumOne jumped into the poolWhere it was nice and coolNow there are two green speckled frogs – glub, glub.
Two little speckled frogsSat on a speckled logEating some most delicious grubs – yum, yumOne jumped into the poolWhere it was nice and coolNow there are one green speckled frogs- glub, glub.
One little speckled frogsSat on a speckled logEating some most delicious grubs – yum, yumOne jumped into the poolWhere it was nice and coolNow there are no green speckled frogs – glub, glub.
Five Little DucksFive little ducksWent out one day,Over the hill and far away.Mother duck said,“Quack, quack, quack, quack.”But only four little ducks came back.
Four little ducksWent out one day,Over the hill and far away.Mother duck said,“Quack, quack, quack, quack.”But only three little ducks came back.
Three little ducksWent out one day,Over the hill and far away.Mother duck said,“Quack, quack, quack, quack.”But only two little ducks came back.
Two little ducksWent out one day,Over the hill and far away.Mother duck said,“Quack, quack, quack, quack.”But only one little duck came back.
One little duckWent out one day,Over the hill and far away.Mother duck said,“Quack, quack, quack, quack.”And none of the five little ducks came back.
Sad mother duckWent out one day,Over the hill and far away.The sad mother duck said“Quack, quack, quack.”And all of the five little ducks came back.
The development of the child during the first three years after birth is unequaled in intensity and importance by any period that proceeds or follows in the whole life of a child.
-Maria MontessoriOx & Owl LiteracyFive Little Monkeys Jumping on the BedFive little monkeys jumping on the bed,One fell off and bumped his head.Mama called the Doctor and the Doctor said,“No more monkeys jumping on the bed!’
Four little monkeys jumping on the bed,One fell off and bumped her head.Papa called the Doctor and the Doctor said,“No more monkeys jumping on the bed!’
Three little monkeys jumping on the bed,One fell off and bumped his head.Mama called the Doctor and the Doctor said,“No more monkeys jumping on the bed!’
Two little monkeys jumping on the bed,One fell off and bumped her head.Papa called the Doctor and the Doctor said,“No more monkeys jumping on the bed!’
One little monkey jumping on the bed,He fell off and bumped his head.Mama called the Doctor and the Doctor said,“Put those monkeys straight to bed!’
For He’s a Jolly Good FellowFor he’s a jolly good fellow, for he’s a jolly good fellow,For he’s a jolly good fellow, which nobody can deny,Which nobody can deny, which nobody can deny!For he’s a jolly good fellow, for he’s a jolly good fellow,For he’s a jolly good fellow (pause), which nobody can deny!
Frère JacquesFrère Jacques, Frère Jacques,Dormez-vous? Dormez-vous?Sonnez les matines! Sonnez les matines!Ding, dang, dong. Ding, dang, dong.
Oh, the grand old Duke of York,He had ten thousand men,He marched them up to the top of the hillAnd he marched them down again.
And when they were up, they were up,And when they were down, they were down.And when they were only halfway up,They were neither up nor down.
Hey Diddle DiddleHumpty DumptyHead, Shoulders, Knees, and ToesHead, shoulders, knees and toes,Knees and toes.
Knees and toes.Head, shoulders, knees and toes,Eyes, ears, mouth, and nose.(Repeat)
Hickory Dickory DockHickory Dickory Dock,The mouse ran up the clock.The clock struck one,The mouse ran down,Hickory Dickory Dock.
Higgledy PiggledyHiggledy Piggledy, my black hen,She lays eggs for gentlemen;Sometimes nine,And sometimes ten,Higgledy Piggledy,My Black hen!
Hush Little Baby(This is a beautiful nighttime lullaby)Hush, little baby, don’t say a word,Papa’s gonna buy you a mockingbird.
And if that mockingbird don’t sing,Papa’s gonna buy you a diamond ring.
And if that diamond ring turn brass,Papa’s gonna buy you a looking glass.
And if that looking glass gets broke,Papa’s gonna buy you a billy goat.
And if that billy goat don’t pull,Papa’s gonna buy you a cart and bull.
And if that cart and bull turn over,Papa’s gonna buy you a dog named Rover.
And if that dog named Rover won’t bark.Papa’s gonna to buy you and horse and cart.
And if that horse and cart fall down,You’ll still be the sweetest little baby in town.
I See the Moon and the Moon Sees MeEnglish Version:I see the moon and the moon sees me,The moon sees somebody I wanna seeGod bless the moon and God bless me:And God bless that somebody I wanna see.
Irish Version:I see the moon, the moon sees me,God bless the moon and God bless me:There’s grace in the cottage and grace in the hall;And the grace of God is over us all.
I See the Moon Song(by Meredith Willson)Over the mountain, over the sea,Back where my heart is longing to be,Please let the light that shines on meShine on the one I love.
I see the moon; the moon sees meDown through the leaves of the old oak tree.Please let the light that shines on meShine on the one I love.
I hear the lark; the lark hears me,Singing a song with a melody.Please let the lark that sings for meSing for the one I love.
I kiss a rose; the rose kisses me,Fragrant as only a rose can be.Please let the Rose that comforts meComfort the one I love.
I’m A Little TeapotJack and JillI’ve Been Working on the RailroadI’ve been working on the railroad,All the livelong day.I’ve been working on the railroad,Just to pass the time away.Can’t you hear the whistle blowing?Rise up early in the morn.Can’t you hear the captain shouting?“Dinah, blow your horn!”
Dinah, won’t you blow,Dinah, won’t you blow,Dinah, won’t you blow your horn?Dinah, won’t you blow,Dinah, won’t you blow,Dinah, won’t you blow your horn?
Singing…fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o,Fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o-o-o-o,Fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o,Strumming on the old banjo!Fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o,Fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o-o-o-o,Fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o.Strumming on the old banjo!
If You’re Happy and You Know ItIf you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands.(clap clap)If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands.(clap clap)If you’re happy and you know it, and you really want to show it,If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands.(clap clap)
If you’re happy and you know it stamp your feet.(Stomp Stomp)If you’re happy and you know it stamp your feet.(Stomp Stomp)If you’re happy and you know it, and you really want to show it,If you’re happy and you know it, stomp your feet.(Stomp Stomp)
If you’re happy and you know it, shout hurray“Hurray!”If you’re happy and you know it, shout hurray“Hurray!”If you’re happy and you know it, and you really want to show it,If you’re happy and you know it, shout hurray.“Hurray!”
If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands (clap clap)Stomp your feet (stomp stomp)Shout hurray “Hurray!”If you’re happy and you know it, and you really want to show itIf you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands (clap clap)Stomp your feet (stomp stomp)Shout hurray “Hurray!”
It’s Raining, It’s PouringIt’s raining, it’s pouring.The old man is snoring.He bumped his head and went to bedAnd he couldn’t get up in the morning.
Itsy Bitsy SpiderThe Itsy Bitsy spiderClimbed up the water spout,Down came the rainAnd washed the spider out,
Out came the sunshineAnd dried up all the rain,And Itsy Bitsy spiderClimbed up the spout again.
Jack Be NimbleJack be nimble,Jack be quick,Jack jump overThe candlestick.
Jerry HallJerry HallHe was so small,A rat could eat him,Hat and all.
John Jacob Jingleheimer SchmidtJohn Jacob Jingleheimer SchmidtHis name is my name too.Whenever we go outThe people always shout,“There goes John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt.”Da da da da da da da.
Keep on the Sunny Side(This song is great for older kids & kid camps too)
Keep on the Sunny Side,Always on the Sunny Side,Keep on the Sunny Side of life.You’ll feel no pain,As we drive you insane,If you keep on the sunny side of life.(One person tells a joke, then the song gets repeated.)
Here are some jokes for this song:1. Why did the teddy bear skip out on having some dessert?– She was stuffed.2. Why was six afraid of seven?-because seven ate nine (7, 8, 9).3. Why are pine trees not great at knitting?-because they keep dropping their needles.4. What’s one way we know the ocean is friendly?– it waves5. Why is Cinderella terrible at baseball?-she runs from the ball6. How do billboards talk to each other?– with sign language7. What’s the strongest sea creature?– Mussels8. What’s a kitty cat’s favourite colour?-purrr-ple9. What’s a pizza’s favourite type of jokes?– cheesy ones!10. What do cows like to do when they’re bored?– watch mooo-vies11. Why are giraffes’ necks so long?-because they have really smelly feet.12. How do you get a squirrel to like you?-act like a nut13. What do you call a snowman in summer?– a puddle14. What did one wall say to the other wall/-see you at the corner!15. What is a tornado’s favourite game to play?– twister
Children learn as they play. Most importantly in play children learn how to learn.
– O. Fred DonaldsonOx & Owl LiteracyK-I-S-S-I-N-G(FIRST NAME) and (Another FIRST NAME)Sitting in a treeK-I-S-S-I-N-G!First comes loveThen comes marriageThen comes babyIn a baby carriage!
Little Bo BeepLittle Bo Peep has lost her sheepAnd doesn’t know where to find them.Leave them aloneAnd they’ll come home,Bringing their tails behind them.
Little Miss MuffetLittle Miss Muffet sat on a tuffet,Eating her curds and whey.Along came a spiderWho sat down beside herAnd frightened Miss Muffet away.
Little Poll ParrotLittle Poll ParrotSat in his garret,Eating toast and tea;A little brown mouseJumped into his house,And stole it all away.
Mary Had a Little LambMary had a little lamb,Little lamb, little lamb.Mary had a little lamb,Its fleece was white as snow.And everywhere that Mary went,Mary went, Mary went,And everywhere that Mary wentThe lamb was sure to go.
It followed her to school one day,School one day, school one day.It followed her to school one day,Which was against the rules.It made the children laugh and play,Laugh and play, laugh and play.It made the children laugh and playTo see a lamb in school.
And so the teacher turned it out,Turned it out, turned it out.And so the teacher turned it out,But still, it lingered near.And waited patiently about,Patiently about, patiently about,And waited patiently aboutTill Mary did appear.
“Why does the lamb love Mary so?”Love Mary so? Love Mary so?“Why does the lamb love Mary so,”The eager children cried.“Why Mary loves the lamb, you know.”The lamb, you know, the lamb, you know,“Why Mary loves the lamb, you know,”The teacher did reply.
Mary, Mary, Quite ContraryMary, Mary, quite contraryHow does your garden grow?With silver bells,And cockle shells,And pretty maids all in a row.
Molly My SisterMolly my sister, and I fell out,And what do you think it was all about?She loved coffee and I loved tea.And that was the reason we couldn’t agree.
My Bonnie Lies Over the OceanMy Bonnie lies over the ocean,My Bonnie lies over the sea,My Bonnie lies over the ocean,Oh, bring back my Bonnie to me,
Bring back, bring back,Oh, bring back my Bonnie to me, to me,Bring back, bring back,Oh, bring back my Bonnie to me!
Last night as I lay on my pillow,Last night as I lay on my bed,Last night as I lay on my pillow,I dreamt that my Bonnie was dead.
Bring back, bring back,Oh, bring back my Bonnie to me, to me,Bring back, bring back,Oh, bring back my Bonnie to me!
Oats, Peas, Beans and Barley GrowOats, peas, beans, and barley grow,Oats, peas, beans, and barley grow.Can you or I or anyone know;How do oats, peas, beans and barley grow?
First, the farmer sows his seed,Then he stands and takes his ease,Stamps his feet and claps his hands,And turns around to view his land.
Next, the farmer waters the seed,Then he stands and takes his ease.Stamps his feet and claps his hands,And turns around to view his land.
Next, the farmer hoes the weed,Then he stands and takes his ease.Stamps his feet and claps his hands,And turns around to view his land.
Last, the farmer harvests the seed,Then he stands and takes his ease.Stamps his feet and claps his hands,And turns around to view his land.
Old King ColeOld King Cole was a merry old soul.And a merry old soul was he,He called for his pipe, and he called for his bowlAnd he called for his fiddlers three.Every fiddler he had a fiddle,And a very fine fiddle had he,Oh there’s none so rare, as can compareWith King Cole and his fiddlers three.
Old MacDonald Had a FarmOld MacDonald had a farm, E I E I O,And on his farm, he had a cow, E I E I O.With a moo moo here and a moo moo there,Here a moo, there a moo, everywhere a moo moo.Old MacDonald had a farm, E I E I O.
Old MacDonald had a farm, E I E I O,And on his farm he had a pig, E I E I O.With an oink oink here and an oink oink there,Here an oink, there an oink, everywhere an oink oink.Old MacDonald had a farm, E I E I O.
Old MacDonald had a farm, E I E I O,And on his farm he had a duck, E I E I O.With a quack quack here, and a quack quack there,Here a quack, there a quack, everywhere a quack quack.Old MacDonald had a farm, E I E I O
Old MacDonald had a farm, E I E I O,And on his farm he had a horse, E I E I O.With a neh neh here and a neh neh there,Here a neh, there a neh, everywhere a neh neh.Old MacDonald had a farm, E I E I O.
Old MacDonald had a farm, E I E I O,And on his farm, he had some sheep, E I E I O.With a bah bah here and a bah bah there,Here a bah, there a bah everywhere a bah bahOld MacDonald had a farm, E I E I O.
Oh Where, Oh Where Has My Little Dog GoneOne, Two, Three, Four, FiveOver the River and Through the Woods(Thanksgiving Rhyme)Over the river and through the woods,To grandfather’s house, we go;The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh,Thru the white and drifted snow, oh!
Over the river and thru the woods,Oh, how the wind does blow!It stings the toes and bites the nose,As over the ground, we go.
Over the river and thru the wood,To have a first-rate play;Oh, hear the bell ring, “Ting-a-ling-ling!”Hurrah for Thanksgiving Day-ay!
Over the river and thru the woods,Trot fast my dapple gray!Spring over the ground like a hunting hound,For this is Thanksgiving Day!
Over the river and through the woods,And straight through the barnyard gate.We seem to go extremely slow,It is so hard to wait!
Over the river and through the woods,Now, Grandmother’s cap I spy!Hurrah for fun! Is the pudding done?Hurrah for the pumpkin pie!
Pat-a-CakePat-a-cake, pat-a-cake, baker’s man.Bake me a cake as fast as you can,Roll it and pat it and mark it with B,And bake it in the oven for baby and me.
Patty-a- cake, patty-a- cake, baker’s man.Bake me a cake as fast as you can,Roll it and pat it and mark it with B,And bake it in the oven for baby and me.
Pop! Goes the WeaselRound and round the cobbler’s bench (or mulberry bush),The monkey chased the weasel.The monkey thought it was all in fun,Pop! goes the weasel.
Half a pound of tuppenny rice,Half a pound of treacle.Mix it up and make it nice,Pop! goes the weasel.
Up and down the City Road,In and out the Eagle.That’s the way the money goes,Pop! goes the weasel.
Every night when I get home,The monkeys on the table.Take a stick and knock it off,Pop! goes the weasel.
Pussycat, PussycatPussycat, pussycatWhere have you been?
I’ve been up to LondonTo visit the Queen.
Pussycat, pussycatWhat did you there?
I frightened a little mouseUnder her chair.
Queen of HeartsThe Queen of HeartsShe made some tarts,All on a summer’s day.The Knave of Hearts,He stole the tarts,And took them clean away.
The King of Hearts,Called for the tarts,And beat the Knave full sore.The Knave of HeartsBrought back the tarts,And vowed he’d steal no more.
Rain, Rain Go AwayRain, rain go awayCome again another day.Rain, rain go awayLittle Johnny wants to play.(Change Johnny to your child’s name.)
Rock a Bye Baby(Classic Lullaby)Rock a bye baby, on the treetop,When the wind blows the cradle will rock,When the bough breaks the cradle will fall,And down will come baby, cradle and all.
Round and Round the GardenRound and round the gardenLike a teddy bear;One step, two-stepTickle you under there!
Row, Row, Row Your Boat(This is a great song to sing as a round)Row, row, row your boatGently down the streamMerrily, merrily, merrily, merrilyLife is but a dream
Rub-a-Dub-DubRub-a-dub-dub,Rub-a-dub-dub,Three men in a tub.And who do you think they be?The butcher,The baker,The Candlestick-maker!And all of them going to sea!
Simple SimonSimple Simon met a pieman,Going to the fair,Says Simple Simon to the pieman.Let me taste your ware!Says the pieman to Simple Simon.Show me first your penny,Says Simple Simon to the pieman.Indeed I have not any!Simple Simon went a-fishing,For to catch a whale,All the water he had gotWas in his mother’s pail.
Simple Simon went to lookIf plums grew on a thistle,He pricked his fingers very much,Which made poor Simon whistle.
Sing, Sing, What Shall I Sing?Sing, sing, what shall I sing?The cat’s run away with the pudding-string!Do, do, what shall I do?The cat has bitten it quite in two.
Skip To My LouSkip, skip, skip to my Lou,Skip to my Lou, Skip to my LouSkip, skip, skip to my Lou,Skip to my Lou, my darlin’
Fly in the buttermilk, Shoo, fly, shoo.Shoo, fly, shoo. Shoo, fly, shooFly in the buttermilk, Shoo, fly, shoo.Skip to my Lou, my darlin’.
I lost my partner, What’ll I do?What’ll I do? What’ll I do?I lost my partner, What’ll I do?Skip to my Lou, my darlin’.
I’ll get another, As pretty as youAs pretty as you, As pretty as youI’ll get another, As pretty as youSkip to my Lou, my darlin’.
Skip, skip, skip to my Lou,Skip to my Lou, Skip to my Lou.Skip, skip, skip to my Lou,Skip to my Lou, my darlin’.
Star Light, Star BrightStar light, star bright,First star I see tonight,I wish I may, I wish I might,Have this wish I wish tonight.
Stella Ella Olla(There are tons of different versions of this song)Stella ella olla, clap clap clap,Singing s chigo chigo, chigo chigo chat chat,S chigo chigo, valo, valo, valo, valo, valo,Singing one, two, three, four, FIVE!
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear(Great one for getting children to do actions to)Teddy bear, teddy bear, turn around!Teddy bear, teddy bear, touch the ground!Teddy bear, teddy bear, jump up high!Teddy bear, teddy bear, touch the sky!
Teddy bear, teddy bear, bend down low!Teddy bear, teddy bear, touch your toes!Teddy bear, teddy bear, turn out the light!Teddy bear, teddy bear, say good night!
Teddy Bear’s PicnicIf you go down in the woods today,You’re sure of a big surprise.If you go down in the woods today,You’d better go in disguise!For every bear that ever there was,Will gather there for certain,Because today’s the day theTeddy Bears have their picnic.
Picnic time for Teddy Bears,The little Teddy Bears areHaving a lovely time today.Watch them, catch them unawares,And see them picnic on their holiday.See them gaily gad about,They love to play and shout;They never have any cares.At six o’clock their Mommies and DaddiesWill take them home to bed,Because they’re tired little Teddy Bears.
Every Teddy Bear who’s been good,Is sure of a treat today.There are lots of marvelous things to eat,And wonderful games to play.Beneath the trees where nobody sees,They’ll hide and seek as long as they please,‘Cause that’s the way theTeddy Bears have their picnic.
Picnic time for Teddy Bears,The little Teddy Bears are havingA lovely time today.Watch them, catch them unawares,And see them picnic on their holiday.See them gaily gad about,They love to play and shout;They never have any cares.At six o’clock their Mommies and DaddiesWill take them home to bed,Because they’re tired little Teddy Bears.Because they’re tired little Teddy Bears.
Ten In a BedThere were ten in a bedAnd the little one said,“Roll over, roll over.”So they all rolled overAnd one fell out.
There were nine in a bedAnd the little one said,“Roll over, roll over.”So they all rolled overAnd one fell out.
There were eight in a bedAnd the little one said,“Roll over, roll over.”So they all rolled overAnd one fell out.
There were seven in a bedAnd the little one said,“Roll over, roll over.”So they all rolled overAnd one fell out.
There were six in a bedAnd the little one said,“Roll over, roll over.”So they all rolled overAnd one fell out.
There were five in a bedAnd the little one said,“Roll over, roll over.”So they all rolled overAnd one fell out.
There were four in a bedAnd the little one said,“Roll over, roll over.”So they all rolled overAnd one fell out.
There were three in a bedAnd the little one said,“Roll over, roll over.”So they all rolled overAnd one fell out.
There were two in a bedAnd the little one said,“Roll over, roll over.”So they all rolled overAnd one fell out.
There was one in a bedAnd the little one said,“Good night!”
The Ants Go MarchingThe ants go marching one by one, hurrah, hurrah.The ants go marching one by one, hurrah, hurrah.The ants go marching one by one,The little one stops to suck his thumb.And they all go marching down,To the ground, to get out of the rain.BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!
The ants go marching two by two, hurrah, hurrah.The ants go marching two by two, hurrah, hurrah.The ants go marching two by two,The little one stops to tie her shoe.And they all go marching down,To the ground, to get out of the rain.BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!
…three…climb a tree……four…shut the door……five…take a dive……six…pick up sticks……seven…pray to heaven……eight…close the gate……nine…check the time……ten…say “The End!”
The Farmer in the DellThe farmer in the dell.The farmer in the dell.Hi-ho, the derry-o,The farmer in the dell.
The farmer takes a wife.The farmer takes a wife.Hi-ho, the derry-o,The farmer takes a wife.
The wife takes a child.The wife takes a child.Hi-ho, the derry-o,The wife takes a child.
The child takes a nurse.The child takes a nurse.Hi-ho, the derry-o,The child takes a nurse.
The nurse takes a cow.The nurse takes a cow.Hi-ho, the derry-o,The nurse takes a cow.
The cow takes a dog.The cow takes a dog.Hi-ho, the derry-o,The cow takes a dog.
The dog takes a cat.The dog takes a cat.Hi-ho, the derry-o,The dog takes a cat.
The cat takes a mouse (orrat).The cat takes a mouse.Hi-ho, the derry-o,The cat takes a mouse.
The mouse takes the cheese.The mouse takes the cheese.Hi-ho, the derry-o,The mouse takes the cheese.
The cheese stands alone.The cheese stands alone.Hi-Ho, the derry-o,The cheese stands alone.
The Hokey PokeyYou put your right hand in,You put your right hand out,You put your right hand in,And you shake it all about.You do the Hokey Pokey,And you turn around,That’s what it’s all about.
You put your left hand in,You put your left hand out,You put your left hand in,And you shake it all about.You do the Hokey Pokey,And you turn around,That’s what it’s all about.
You put your right foot in,You put your right foot out,You put your right foot in,And you shake it all about.You do the Hokey Pokey,And you turn around,That’s what it’s all about.
You put your left foot in,You put your left foot out,You put your left foot in,And you shake it all about.You do the Hokey Pokey,And you turn around,That’s what it’s all about.
You put your whole self in,You put your whole self out,You put your whole self inAnd you shake it all about.You do the Hokey Pokey,And you turn around,That’s what it’s all about.
The More We Get TogetherThe more we get together, together, together,The more we get together, the happier we’ll be,‘Cause your friends are my friends and my friends are your friends.The more we get together the happier we’ll be!
The more we play together, together, together,The more we play together, the happier we’ll be,‘Cause your friends are my friends and my friends are your friends.The more we play together the happier we’ll be!
The more we eat together, together, together,The more we eat together, the happier we’ll be,‘Cause your friends are my friends and my friends are your friends.The more we eat together the happier we’ll be!
The Muffin ManThe Snail and the MouseThe Mulberry BushHere we go ’round the mulberry bushThe mulberry bushThe mulberry bushHere we go ’round the mulberry bushOn a cold and frosty morning
This is the way we wash our faceWash our faceWash our faceThis is the way we wash our faceOn a cold and frosty morning
Here we go ’round the mulberry bushThe mulberry bushThe mulberry bushHere we go ’round the mulberry bushOn a cold and frosty morning
This is the way we brush our teethBrush our teethBrush our teethThis is the way we brush our teethOn a cold and frosty morning
Here we go ’round the mulberry bushThe mulberry bushThe mulberry bushHere we go ’round the mulberry bushOn a cold and frosty morning
This is the way we comb our hairComb our hairComb our hairThis is the way we comb our hairOn a cold and frosty morning
Here we go ’round the mulberry bushThe mulberry bushThe mulberry bushHere we go ’round the mulberry bushOn a cold and frosty morning
This is the way we put on our clothesPut on our clothesPut on our clothesThis is the way we put on our clothesOn a cold and frosty morning
The Wheels on the BusThe wheels on the bus go round and round,Round and round, Round and round.The wheels on the bus go round and round,All through the town.
The wipers on the bus go swish, swish, swish,Swish, swish, swish.Swish, swish, swish.The wipers on the bus go swish, swish, swish,All through the town.
The doors on the bus go open and shut,Open and shut, open and shutThe doors on the bus go open and shut,All through the town.
The horn on the bus goes beep, beep, beep,Beep, beep, beep.Beep, beep, beep.The horn on the bus goes beep, beep, beep,All through the town.
The people on the bus go up and down,Up and down,Up and down.The people on the bus go up and down,All through the town.
The baby on the bus goes “Wah, wah, wah”,“Wah, wah, wah”,“Wah, wah, wah”.The baby on the bus goes “Wah, wah, wah”.All through the town.
The mummy’s on the bus go “Shh, shh, shh”,“Shh, shh, shh”,“Shh, shh, shh”.The mummy’s on the bus go “Shh, shh, shh”.All through the town.
The wheels on the bus go round and round,Round and round,Round and round.The wheels on the bus go round and round,All through the town.
There Was an Old Woman Who Swallowed a FlyThere was an old lady who swallowed a flyI don’t know why she swallowed a fly – Perhaps she’ll die!
There was an old lady who swallowed a spiderThat wriggled and wiggled and jiggled inside her.She swallowed the spider to catch the flyI don’t know why she swallowed a fly – Perhaps she’ll die!
There was an old lady who swallowed a birdHow absurd to swallow a bird.She swallowed the bird to catch the spiderShe swallowed the spider to catch the flyI don’t know why she swallowed a fly – Perhaps she’ll die!
There was an old lady who swallowed a catFancy that to swallow a cat!She swallowed the cat to catch the birdShe swallowed the bird to catch the spiderShe swallowed the spider to catch the flyI don’t know why she swallowed a fly – Perhaps she’ll die!
There was an old lady that swallowed a dogWhat a hog, to swallow a dog.She swallowed the dog to catch the catShe swallowed the cat to catch the birdShe swallowed the bird to catch the spiderShe swallowed the spider to catch the flyI don’t know why she swallowed a fly – Perhaps she’ll die!
There was an old lady who swallowed a cowI don’t know how she swallowed a cow.She swallowed the cow to catch the dogShe swallowed the dog to catch the catShe swallowed the cat to catch the birdShe swallowed the bird to catch the spiderShe swallowed the spider to catch the flyI don’t know why she swallowed a fly – Perhaps she’ll die!
There was an old lady who swallowed a horse…She’s dead – of course!
This Old ManThis old man, he played one,He played knick-knack on my thumb;With a knick-knack paddywhack,Give the dog the bone,This old man came rolling home.
This old man, he played two,He played knick-knack on my shoe;With a knick-knack paddywhack,Give the dog the bone,This old man came rolling home.
This old man, he played three,He played knick-knack on my knee;With a knick-knack paddywhack,Give the dog the bone,This old man came rolling home.
This old man, he played four,He played knick-knack on my door;With a knick-knack paddywhack,Give the dog the bone,This old man came rolling home.
This old man, he played five,He played knick-knack on my hive;With a knick-knack paddywhack,Give the dog the bone,This old man came rolling home.
This old man, he played six,He played knick-knack with some sticks;With a knick-knack paddywhack,Give the dog the bone,This old man came rolling home.
This old man, he played seven,He played knick-knack up in heaven;With a knick-knack paddywhack,Give the dog the bone,This old man came rolling home.
This old man, he played eight,He played knick-knack on my gate;With a knick-knack paddywhack,Give the dog the bone,This old man came rolling home.
This old man, he played nine,He played knick-knack on my spine.With a knick-knack paddywhack,Give the dog the bone,This old man came rolling home.
This old man, he played ten,He played knick-knack once again;With a knick-knack paddywhack,Give the dog the bone,This old man came rolling home.
Three Blind MiceThree blind mice, three blind mice,See how they run, see how they run!They all ran after the farmer’s wife,She cut off their tails with a carving knife.Did you ever see such a sight in your life,As three blind mice?
Three Blue PigeonsThree blue pigeons, three blue pigeons, three blue pigeonsSitting on a fence.Oh look! One has flown away!
Two blue pigeons, two blue pigeons, two blue pigeonsSitting on a fence.Oh look! another one has flown away!
One blue pigeon, one blue pigeon, one blue pigeonSitting on a fence.Oh look! It has flown away too!
No blue pigeons, no blue pigeons, no blue pigeonsSitting on a fence.Oh look! One has returned! Hurray!
One blue pigeon,one blue pigeon, one blue pigeonSitting on a fence.Oh look! Another has returned! Hurray!
Two blue pigeons, two blue pigeons, two blue pigeonsSitting on a fence.Oh look! The last one has returned! Hurray!
Three blue pigeons, three blue pigeons, three blue pigeons,Sitting on a fence!
This Little PiggyTwinkle, Twinkle Little StarTwo Little Dicky BirdsTwo little dickie birdsSitting on a wall,One named Peter,One named Paul.Fly away Peter!Fly away Paul!Come back Peter!Come back Paul!
We’re Going on a Bear HuntWe’re going on a bear hunt,We’re going to catch a big one,What a beautiful day!I’m not scared.Oh look! It’s some tall, wavy grass!Can’t go over it,Can’t go under it,Can’t go around it,We got to go through it!Swish swash! Swish swash! Swish swash!
We’re going on a bear hunt,We’re going to catch a big one,What a beautiful day!I’m not scaredOh look! It’s a big murky forest.Can’t go over it,Can’t go under it,Can’t go around it,We’ve got to go through it!Thud umph! Thud Umph! Thud umph!
We’re going on a bear hunt,We’re going to catch a big one,What a beautiful day!I’m not scaredOh look! It’s a cold, deep river.Can’t go over it,Can’t go under it,Can’t go around it,We’ve got to go through it.Splish splash! Splish splash! Splish splash!
We’re going on a bear hunt,We’re going to catch a big one,What a beautiful day!I’m not scaredOh look! It’s a giant muddy swamp.Can’t go over it,Can’t go under it,Can’t go around it,We’ve got to go through it.Squish Squelch! Squish Squelch! Squish Squelch!
We’re going on a bear hunt,We’re going to catch a big one,What a beautiful day!I’m not scaredOh look! It’s a dark, damp cave.Can’t go over it,Can’t go under it,Can’t go around it,We’ve got to go through it.Tip Toe! Tip Toe! Tip Toe!
Shhhhhhhh!What’s that!Can’t see anything.But I can feel something.And I can hear something.Better take out our flashlights.
Yikes, it’s a Bear!Quick! Run!Back through the cave. Tip Toe! Tip Toe! Tip Toe!Back through the swamp. Squish Squelch! Squish Squelch! Squish Squelch! Back through the river. Splish splash! Splish splash! Splish splash!Back through the forest. Thud umph! Thud Umph! Thud umph!Back through the tall grass. Swish swash! Swish swash! Swish swash!Back to our house.Through the front door.Shut the door.Lock it!Whew!I wasn’t scared.
Where is Thumbkin?Where is Thumbkin? Where is Thumbkin?Here I am! Here I am!How are you today, sir?Very well, I thank you.Run away! Run away!
Where is Pointer? Where is Pointer?Here I am! Here I am!Here I am! Here I am!How are you today, ma’am?Very well, I thank you.Run away! Run away!
Where is Tall One? Where is Tall One?Here I am! Here I am!How are you today, miss?Very well, I thank you.Run away! Run away!
Where is Ring Man? Where is Ring Man?Here I am! Here I am!How are you today, sir?Very well, I thank you.Run away! Run away!
Where is Pinky? Where is Pinky?Here I am! Here I am!How are you today, dear?Very well, I thank you.Crawl away! Crawl away!
Where’s the whole family? Where’s the whole family?Here we are! Here we are!How are you today, folks?Very well, we thank you.Stay and play! Stay and play!
Yankee DoodleYankee Doodle went to town,A-riding on a pony.Stuck a feather in his cap,And called it macaroni.
Zoom, Zoom, Zoom, We’re Going to the MoonZoom, Zoom, Zoom,We’re going to the moon.Zoom, Zoom, Zoom,We’re going to the moon.If you want to take a trip,Climb aboard my rocket ship.Zoom, Zoom, Zoom,We’re going to the moon.5, 4, 3, 2, 1,Blast off!
Nursery Rhymes are a launch pad for early language development and literacy.
Ox & Owl Literacy