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“A Tisket A Tasket” is a cheerful traditional nursery rhyme about a child who loses a little basket and asks friends for help to find it. The simple story, catchy rhythm, and repeating sounds make it especially enjoyable for young children. Kids love singing along because the words are easy to remember and the tune feels playful and light. Parents and teachers often use this rhyme during circle time or playtime because it naturally encourages listening and participation. It also supports early learning by building memory, improving language skills, and helping children notice rhyming patterns. With its gentle storytelling and friendly tone, this rhyme creates a happy learning moment while keeping little ones engaged, smiling, and eager to sing along again and again.
A Tisket A Tasket Song Lyrics
These A Tisket A Tasket words are shared below as a well-loved nursery rhyme that children enjoy singing and learning together.
A-tisket a-tasket
A green and yellow basket
I wrote a letter to my love
And on the way I dropped it
I dropped it, I dropped it
Yes, on the way I dropped it
A little girlie picked it up
And took it to the market
She was truckin’ on down the avenue
Without a single thing to do
She was peck, peck, peckin’ all around
When she spied it on the ground
A-tisket a-tasket
She took my yellow basket
And if she doesn’t bring it back
I think that I shall die
A-tisket a-tasket
A green and yellow basket
I wrote a letter to my love
And on the way I dropped it
I dropped it, I dropped it
Yes, on the way I dropped it
A little girlie picked it up
And took it to the market
(Was it red?) No, no, no, no
(Was it brown?) No, no, no, no
(Was it blue?) No, no, no, no
Just a little yellow basket.
Other Versions of the A Tisket A Tasket Song
This rhyme has appeared in a few slightly different versions over time, often changing small details to suit regional or classroom preferences.
Version 1: Color Variation
A-tisket, a-tasket,
A red and blue basket,
I wrote a letter to my friend,
And on the way I dropped it.
I dropped it, I dropped it,
And on the way I dropped it.
A little boy, he picked it up,
And put it in his pocket.
Version 2: Little Girl Variation
A-tisket, a-tasket,
A green and yellow basket,
I wrote a letter to my love,
And on the way I dropped it.
I dropped it, I dropped it,
And on the way I dropped it.
A little girl, she picked it up,
And put it in her pocket.
Version 3: Repeating Lines for Group Singing
A-tisket, a-tasket,
A green and yellow basket,
A green and yellow basket,
I dropped it on the way.
I dropped it, I dropped it,
I dropped it on the way,
A little boy picked it up,
And kept it safe today.
Gestures – How to Teach A Tisket A Tasket to Kids
Using actions makes this rhyme more fun and helps children remember the words more easily. Simple movements also keep young learners active and focused.
- Pretend to hold a small basket with both hands to show what a “tisket” or “tasket” is.
- Point to imaginary green and yellow colors in the air when saying the basket colors.
- Act like you are writing a letter to match the line about writing to a loved one.
- Gently drop your hands down to show the letter falling on the way.
- Bend slightly as if looking for something lost to show concern.
- Pretend to pick something up and tuck it into a pocket to finish the rhyme.
History & Quick Facts
“A Tisket A Tasket” is an old American nursery rhyme that dates back to the late 19th century. It was first published in 1879 as part of a collection of children’s rhymes. The rhyme became widely known through playground singing games and was later adapted into popular music. Its simple lyrics and repetitive pattern helped it spread easily among children and schools. Over time, it became a familiar part of early childhood learning and play.
Interesting Facts
- The rhyme was originally used as a singing game where children formed circles.
- It inspired a famous jazz song recorded by Ella Fitzgerald in the 1930s.
- The words “tisket” and “tasket” do not have real meanings and are playful sounds.
- The rhyme has been translated and adapted in different cultures for children.
- Its tune is simple, making it easy for young kids to sing independently.
- The story teaches gentle lessons about loss and sharing in a child-friendly way.
Suitable Age & Learnings
This rhyme is best suited for children aged 2 to 6 years, as it matches their language and attention levels. It works well for toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarten learners.
- Children learn rhyming words, which supports early phonics awareness.
- The song improves memory by encouraging kids to recall repeated lines.
- Simple vocabulary helps build everyday language skills.
- Singing together supports social interaction and turn-taking.
- Gestures help develop coordination and motor skills.
- The story encourages listening and following along with a sequence.
FAQs
1. What is the rhyming scheme of A Tisket A Tasket?
The rhyme mainly follows an AABB pattern with repeating end sounds.
2. Why is this rhyme good for early learning?
It supports language development, memory, and rhythm recognition.
“A Tisket A Tasket” remains a timeless nursery rhyme that continues to delight young children. Its playful words and simple melody make learning feel natural and enjoyable. Parents and teachers appreciate how easily it fits into daily routines like playtime or circle time. The rhyme gently supports early language, listening, and memory skills without feeling like a lesson. With added gestures and actions, it becomes even more engaging for little learners. Sharing this classic rhyme helps create warm, joyful moments while supporting healthy early childhood development.
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