Origin: The song “Itsy Bitsy Spider” dates back to at least 1910, appearing in publications like Camp and Camino in Lower California under the title “Spider Song” with different lyrics.
Purpose: Originally a folk song, it has evolved into a popular children’s rhyme used to teach coordination through fingerplay and resilience through its lyrics.
Itsy Bitsy Spider, also known as Incy Wincy Spider, is a beloved nursery rhyme and fingerplay that follows a little spider’s journey up and down a waterspout.
Accompanied by hand gestures that mimic the lyrics, this playful song helps children develop coordination while enjoying the catchy tune. A favorite for generations, it teaches perseverance in a fun and engaging way!
Itsy Bitsy Spider Song English Lyrics
The itsy bitsy spider climbed up the waterspout.
Down came the rain
and washed the spider out.
Out came the sun
and dried up all the rain
and the itsy bitsy spider climbed up the spout again.
x4
FINGERPLAY:
Alternately touch the thumb of one hand to the index finger of the other.
Hold both hands up and wiggle the fingers as the hands are lowered.
Sweep the hands from side to side.
Raise both hands and sweep to the sides to form a semicircle as the sun.
Wiggle fingers upwards.
(as in the first line)
The song dates back to at least 1910, appearing in early publications under different titles and lyrics.
The movements involve mimicking a spider climbing, rain falling, sun shining, and the spider climbing again, aiding in motor skill development.
It’s a foundational song that helps in developing coordination, memory, and understanding of perseverance.