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“Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum In a Dish” is a lively and playful nursery rhyme that children love for its fun actions and cheerful rhythm. The rhyme is often sung during circle games, where one child is chosen at the end, making it exciting and interactive for little ones. Kids enjoy the simple words, repetition, and the surprise element built into the song. For parents and teachers, this rhyme is a wonderful early learning tool because it supports listening skills, memory, and turn-taking. The steady beat also helps children understand rhythm and patterns in language. Most importantly, it encourages group play, laughter, and confidence, making it a favorite choice for classrooms, playgroups, and family sing-alongs.
Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum In a Dish Song Lyrics
These Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum In a Dish words are easy to remember and are usually sung while children sit or stand in a circle during playtime.
Bubble gum, bubble gum, in a dish,
How many pieces do you wish?
Five.
One, two, three, four, five.
And you must go out.

Other Versions of the Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum In a Dish Song
This rhyme has been passed down through generations, so a few playful variations exist. Below is the alternate version of the rhyme.
Bubble gum, bubble gum in a dish,
How many pieces do you wish?
One, two, three, four, five,
Six, seven, eight, nine, ten.
And (child’s name) pops right out,
Now it’s your turn to jump about!
Gestures – How to Teach Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum In a Dish to Kids
Teaching this rhyme with actions makes it more engaging and helps children learn through movement.
- Ask children to sit or stand in a circle so everyone feels included and ready to play together.
- Pretend to stir bubble gum in a dish using circular hand movements as the rhyme begins.
- Point to the group while counting numbers aloud to help kids connect words with numbers.
- Gently tap one child per word or beat to build anticipation during the counting part.
- Encourage the selected child to stand up or step forward when the rhyme ends.
- Finish with clapping or cheering so the activity ends on a happy and positive note.
History & Quick Facts
“Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum In a Dish” is a traditional children’s rhyme with roots in oral folk culture rather than a known single author. It likely emerged in the mid-20th century alongside other playground and circle-counting rhymes. The song became popular in schools and playgrounds because it was easy to remember and perfect for group games. Over time, it spread through word of mouth, adapting slightly across regions while keeping its playful core intact.
Interesting Facts
- The rhyme is often used as a counting-out game to choose a child during group play.
- It is especially popular in preschools and kindergarten classrooms around the world.
- Many children learn the rhyme before they can read, showing its strong oral tradition.
- The tune is simple and chant-like, making it easy to adapt with actions or claps.
- Some versions replace “golden thread” with local or creative phrases.
- The rhyme has been shared widely through children’s books, learning apps, and nursery rhyme websites.
Suitable Age & Learnings
This rhyme is best suited for children aged 2 to 6 years, as it matches their language and play development stages. It combines fun with foundational learning in a natural way.
- Children learn counting skills by repeating numbers in a clear and rhythmic order.
- The rhyme builds listening and attention skills as kids wait for their turn in the game.
- It supports social interaction by encouraging group play and cooperation.
- Kids improve memory and recall through repetition of simple lines.
- The rhythm helps develop early language and phonemic awareness.
- New vocabulary such as “dish,” “pieces,” and “thread” is introduced in a playful context.
FAQs
1. What is the rhyming scheme of Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum In a Dish?
The rhyme follows a simple AABB pattern, making it easy for young children to follow and remember.
2. Why is this rhyme popular in classrooms?
Teachers like it because it combines counting, movement, and social interaction in one short activity.
“Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum In a Dish” is more than just a fun chant—it’s a joyful learning experience for young children. Its simple words, catchy rhythm, and interactive nature make it perfect for early childhood settings. Parents and teachers appreciate how easily it encourages counting, listening, and group participation. Children love the excitement of the game and the surprise of being chosen at the end. Because it is simple and flexible, the rhyme can be adapted for different ages and activities. Overall, it remains a timeless favorite that brings smiles, laughter, and learning together in the most natural way.
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