Whether you’re looking for catchy sing-alongs, finger-play games, or classic bedtime stories, here is 

a collection of some of the most popular children’s rhymes and their origins:

Classic Sing-Alongs

• Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star: An English nursery rhyme based on the 19th-century poem by Jane Taylor. It uses a 1761 French melody, the same tune used for Baa, Baa, Black Sheep and the ABC Song.
• The Wheels on the Bus: A favorite for long rides, this rhyme includes fun actions for the wheels, wipers, and horn.
• Old MacDonald Had a Farm: Originating in an 18th-century opera, this song is great for teaching animal sounds.
• London Bridge Is Falling Down: A traditional singing game where children form an arch for others to run through. 

Finger-Plays & Action Rhymes

• Itsy Bitsy Spider: Often called “Incy Wincy Spider,” this rhyme uses hand motions to mimic a spider climbing a water spout.
• Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes: A high-energy song that helps children identify body parts.
• Five Little Monkeys: A counting rhyme about monkeys jumping on a bed, perfect for teaching basic numbers.
• Where Is Thumbkin?: A popular finger-play song where children hide their thumbs and bring them out one by one. 

Famous Rhymes with Surprising Histories

• Humpty Dumpty: While often portrayed as an egg, there is no official record stating he is one; some suggest he may have been a person, like King Richard III.
• Mary Had a Little Lamb: Based on a real 14-year-old girl named Mary Sawyer who actually brought her pet lamb to school in 19th-century America.
• Jack and Jill: An 18th-century rhyme that some believe refers to a tragic local couple from Somerset, England.
• Ring Around the Rosie: Frequently interpreted as being about the Great Plague, though many folklorists debate this dark origin. 

Helpful Resources

• YouTube Channels: For animated versions, Cocomelon and NuNu Tv are top-rated for preschoolers.
• Printables: You can find printable cards for Nursery Rhymes and Finger-plays to use during circle time. 

Would you like the full lyrics to a specific rhyme, or are you looking for rhymes in a different languagelike Spanish or French?