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Kids love singing The Farmer in the Dell because it’s cheerful, playful, and easy to follow, making it a perfect circle-time activity. The rhyme introduces children to simple sequencing, characters, and social interaction while keeping them engaged through repetition. Its catchy tune and clear actions encourage early language skills and group participation, making it a favourite among preschoolers.
The Farmer in the Dell Song Lyrics
Here are The Farmer in the Dell words to help little ones sing along joyfully.
The farmer in the dell
The farmer in the dell
Heigh-ho,the derry-o
The farmer in the dell
The farmer takes a wife
The farmer takes a wife
Heigh-ho, the derry-o
The farmer takes a wife
The wife takes the child
The wife takes the child
Heigh-ho, the derry-o
The wife takes the child
The child takes the nurse
The child takes the nurse
Heigh-ho, the derry-o
The child takes the nurse
The nurse takes the cow
The nurse takes the cow
Heigh-ho, the derry-o
The nurse takes the cow
The cow takes the dog
The cow takes the dog
Heigh-ho, the derry-o
The cow takes the dog
The dog takes the cat
The cow takes the dog
Heigh-ho, the derry-o
The cow takes the dog
The cat takes the mouse
The cat takes the mouse
Heigh-ho, the derry-o
The cat takes the mouse
The mouse takes the cheese
The mouse takes the cheese
Heigh-ho, the derry-o
The mouse takes the cheese
The cheese stands alone
The cheese stands alone
Heigh-ho, the derry-o
The cheese stands alone
Other Versions of the The Farmer in the Dell Song
Some variations of this rhyme introduce different animals or change the sequence of characters to make the song more playful. Here are a few alternate versions children also enjoy:
1. Version Where The Cheese Chooses a Friend
The farmer in the dell,
The farmer in the dell,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The farmer in the dell.
The farmer takes a wife…
The wife takes a child…
The child takes a nurse…
The nurse takes a cow…
The cow takes a dog…
The dog takes a cat…
The cat takes a mouse…
The mouse takes the cheese…
The cheese chooses a friend,
The cheese chooses a friend,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The cheese chooses a friend.
2. Farm-Themed Animal Version
The farmer in the dell,
The farmer in the dell,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The farmer in the dell.
The farmer calls the hen,
The farmer calls the hen,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The farmer calls the hen.
The hen calls the duck,
The hen calls the duck,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The hen calls the duck.
The duck calls the sheep,
The duck calls the sheep,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The duck calls the sheep.
The sheep calls the cow,
The sheep calls the cow,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The sheep calls the cow.
The cow calls the dog,
The cow calls the dog,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The cow calls the dog.
3. Shortened Preschool Version
The farmer in the dell,
The farmer in the dell,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The farmer in the dell.
The farmer takes a wife,
The farmer takes a wife,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The farmer takes a wife.
The wife takes a child,
The wife takes a child,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The wife takes a child.
The child takes the cheese,
The child takes the cheese,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The child takes the cheese.
The cheese stands alone,
The cheese stands alone,
Hi-ho, the derry-o,
The cheese stands alone.
Gestures – How to Teach The Farmer in the Dell to Kids
Children love this rhyme even more when movements are added. These simple gestures make the activity interactive and fun:
- Pretend to hold a farmer’s hat while singing “The farmer in the dell.”
- Join hands in a circle to mimic the group game as you sing.
- Point as if choosing someone when singing “takes a wife/child/nurse.”
- Hold imaginary animals like a cow, dog, or cat when their names appear.
- Show a tiny mouse with small finger movements.
- Stand still with arms wide for “The cheese stands alone.”
History & Quick Facts
The Farmer in the Dell is believed to have originated in Germany in the early 19th century, where it was known as “Es fuhr ein Bau’r ins Holz.” It was commonly played as a circle game and later travelled to the United States, gaining popularity in the mid-1800s. Although its original author is unknown, the rhyme spread quickly through oral tradition and children’s songbooks. Over time, it became a beloved singing game in classrooms and playgrounds across many countries.
Interesting Facts
- The rhyme was first noted in Germany and later adapted into English.
- “Dell” means a small valley, adding a scenic touch to the farm setting.
- The tune is simple and repetitive, helping young children sing with ease.
- Many cultures have their own versions with different characters and animals.
- The rhyme is commonly used in preschool circle games around the world.
- “The cheese stands alone” is the most memorable line and often gets the loudest cheer from kids.
Suitable Age & Learnings
This rhyme is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers aged 2–6 years, offering interactive fun and simple storytelling. It reinforces early learning skills through rhythm, repetition, and playful group movement.
Key Learnings:
- Children learn sequencing as they understand how each character leads to the next in the rhyme.
- Kids build vocabulary by hearing and repeating new character and animal names.
- They develop social skills through turn-taking and participating in the group circle game.
- Listening skills improve as children follow the rhythm, cues, and actions of the song.
- Rhyming patterns help strengthen early language and literacy development.
- Pretend actions encourage creativity and imaginative movement.
FAQs
1. What is the rhyming scheme of The Farmer in the Dell?
The rhyme follows a simple repetitive pattern where the second and fourth lines rhyme, making it easy for children to memorise and sing.
2. Is The Farmer in the Dell a circle-time activity?
Yes, it is widely used as a circle game where children hold hands, sing, and choose participants as the rhyme progresses.
The Farmer in the Dell is a timeless rhyme that blends music, storytelling, and playful movement, making it ideal for young learners. Its simple tune, predictable pattern, and interactive nature help children gain confidence while having fun. Whether used at home or in school, it offers endless opportunities for learning through joyful play. Add gestures, gather a circle, and let the singing begin!
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