The Itsy Bitsy Spider: words and actions
This traditional rhyme is four lines long and also goes by Incy Wincy Spider. Tap the button to hear it read out loud.
The itsy bitsy spider climbed up the water spout.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.
Actions, by how small the hands are
For babies
Lay your baby down and tell the rhyme on their body. Your fingers creep from toes to chin, patter down for the rain, and stroke a gentle circle on their tummy for the sun.
For toddlers
- Climb: open and close both hands while lifting them high.
- Rain: flutter your fingers on the way down to your knees.
- Sun: throw both arms up and out as wide as they’ll go.
- Climb again: the same as the start, a little faster.
For preschoolers
Teach the classic climb. Press one thumb to the other hand’s index finger, then twist and swap, so the hands walk upward like a little ladder. It takes practice, and it is a great workout for small fingers. Try it slowly before adding the words.
Questions about this rhyme
See the spider climb
This page reads the words aloud. For the full sing-along, watch the Itsy Bitsy Spider video on Kids Story Book.