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Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around is a cheerful action rhyme that invites children to move, clap, jump, and pretend while singing along. The song follows simple instructions that are easy for little ones to copy, making it both fun and interactive. Kids enjoy pretending to be a teddy bear as they spin around and touch the ground. The playful movements keep them active and engaged, which makes learning feel like playtime. For parents and teachers, this rhyme is a wonderful early learning tool. It supports listening skills, body coordination, memory, and following directions. With its catchy rhythm and easy words, it quickly becomes a favorite in homes, classrooms, and playgroups.
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around Song Lyrics
Here are the complete Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around words that children love to sing and act out together:
Teddy bear, teddy bear, turn around,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, touch the ground,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, reach up high,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, touch the sky,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, bend down low,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, touch your toes,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, go to bed,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, rest your head,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, turn out the lights,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, say “good night”.
Other Versions of Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around Song
Over time, families and teachers have created slightly different versions to add more fun movements.
_Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, climb the stairs,*
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, say your prayers,
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, turn out the light,
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, say good night!_*
These variations are often used at bedtime or during circle time to match the routine of the day.
Gestures – How to Teach Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around to Kids
This rhyme becomes even more exciting when children act out every line. Simple, clear gestures help little learners follow along with confidence.
- Turn Around: Ask children to slowly spin in a circle when they hear “turn around” so they connect the words with the action.
- Touch the Ground: Encourage them to bend down and gently touch the floor to practice balance and flexibility.
- Polish Your Shoes: Show them how to pretend to wipe or polish their shoes using their hands in a playful way.
- Go to School: Have children march in place like they are walking to school with a happy smile.
- That Will Do: Guide them to stop moving and stand still to understand the idea of pausing or finishing.
- I Love You: Let them hug themselves or spread their arms wide to show affection and warmth.
History & Quick Facts
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around is a traditional action nursery rhyme believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The exact author is unknown, as it was passed down through oral tradition before appearing in printed nursery rhyme collections. It became popular in preschools and kindergartens because it combined singing with physical movement. Teachers appreciated how easily children could memorize it. Over time, it spread to other English-speaking countries and remains a favorite action rhyme today.
Interesting Facts
- This rhyme is often used in preschool classrooms as a warm-up activity to start the day with movement.
- Many children imagine their favorite teddy bear while singing, which makes the song more personal and comforting.
- The rhyme has been translated into different languages while keeping the same simple actions.
- It is commonly sung to an easy marching-style rhythm that helps children stay in sync.
- Some families use the bedtime version to help children wind down at night.
- The rhyme’s repetitive structure makes it easy for toddlers to remember and repeat confidently.
Suitable Age & Learnings
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around is best suited for children aged 2 to 6 years, especially toddlers and preschoolers. The simple actions and repetitive words make it perfect for early learners who are building basic skills.
- Listening Skills: Children learn to listen carefully and respond to instructions in the correct order.
- Gross Motor Skills: Spinning, bending, and marching help develop coordination and balance.
- Memory Development: Repeating the lines strengthens recall and sequencing skills.
- Vocabulary Growth: Words like “turn,” “ground,” “school,” and “love” expand everyday language understanding.
- Following Directions: Kids practice understanding and completing short action commands.
- Social Interaction: Singing together encourages group participation and confidence.
FAQs
1. What is the rhyming scheme of Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around?
The rhyme mainly follows a simple AABB-style pattern, where pairs of lines rhyme, making it easy for children to predict and remember.
2. Is Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around good for toddlers?
Yes, it is perfect for toddlers because the movements are simple and the words are easy to understand and repeat.
3. Can this rhyme be used in classrooms?
Absolutely. Teachers often use it during circle time or as a movement break to keep children active and focused.
Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around continues to be a timeless favorite for young children. Its simple instructions, playful rhythm, and sweet ending make it both joyful and comforting. The rhyme encourages movement, listening, and imagination all at once. Parents and teachers appreciate how naturally it supports early development through music and play. Whether sung at home, in preschool, or during bedtime routines, it creates happy learning moments. Most importantly, it brings smiles, laughter, and a little extra love to every child who sings along.
