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Hickory Dickory Dock is a classic nursery rhyme about a little mouse who runs up a clock while it strikes the hour. As the clock chimes, the mouse quickly runs back down, making the rhyme playful and exciting for young listeners. Children love the ticking sound, the repeating words, and the simple storyline that is easy to follow.
This cheerful rhyme helps kids learn about numbers, time, and sequencing in a fun way. The rhythmic pattern supports early language development, while the repetition builds memory and listening skills. Parents and teachers often use it during circle time to introduce counting and sound recognition. Its short lines and catchy rhythm make it perfect for toddlers and preschoolers beginning their learning journey.
Hickory Dickory Dock Song Lyrics
The playful rhythm and repeating sounds make the Hickory Dickory Dock words easy for children to remember and sing along. Below are the full traditional lyrics of this well-loved rhyme.
Hickory, dickory, dock,
The mouse ran up the clock.
The clock struck one,
The mouse ran down,
Hickory, dickory, dock
Other Versions of Hickory Dickory Dock Song
Over the years, many extended and playful versions of this rhyme have been created to make counting practice more exciting for children. Below are some popular alternate versions often sung in classrooms and homes.
Version 1 – Counting Up to Five
Hickory dickory dock,
The mouse ran up the clock.
The clock struck one,
The mouse ran down,
Hickory dickory dock.
Hickory dickory dock,
The mouse ran up the clock.
The clock struck two,
The mouse said “boo!”
Hickory dickory dock.
Hickory dickory dock,
The mouse ran up the clock.
The clock struck three,
The mouse said “whee!”
Hickory dickory dock.
Hickory dickory dock,
The mouse ran up the clock.
The clock struck four,
The mouse said “no more!”
Hickory dickory dock.
Hickory dickory dock,
The mouse ran up the clock.
The clock struck five,
The mouse took a dive,
Hickory dickory dock.
Version 2 – Different Animal Version
Hickory dickory dock,
The cat ran up the clock.
The clock struck one,
The cat ran down,
Hickory dickory dock.
Hickory dickory dock,
The squirrel climbed the clock.
The clock struck two,
Away it flew,
Hickory dickory dock.
Version 3 – Action-Based Classroom Version
Hickory dickory dock,
We all looked at the clock.
The clock struck one,
We clapped for fun,
Hickory dickory dock.
Hickory dickory dock,
We all looked at the clock.
The clock struck two,
We jumped like you,
Hickory dickory dock.
Gestures – How to Teach Hickory Dickory Dock to Kids
Adding simple actions makes the rhyme more interactive and helps children remember the lines better. These easy, movement-based gestures can turn singing time into a joyful learning activity.
- Raise one arm straight up and wiggle your fingers like a climbing mouse as you say “The mouse ran up the clock,” so children can copy the climbing motion.
- Form a big circle with both arms above your head to show the clock shape while saying “clock.”
- Tap your wrist like a ticking clock and say “tick-tock” sounds to build excitement before the clock strikes.
- Hold up one finger when saying “The clock struck one,” helping children connect numbers with actions.
- Quickly slide your hand downward to show the mouse running down the clock.
- Encourage children to crouch down slightly when saying “ran down,” making the movement playful and memorable.
History & Quick Facts
Hickory Dickory Dock is a traditional English nursery rhyme believed to have originated in the 18th century. It was first published in 1744 in a collection called Tommy Thumb’s Pretty Song Book. The author is unknown, as many early nursery rhymes were passed down orally before being printed. Some historians believe the rhyme may have been inspired by a real clock in Exeter Cathedral in England, which featured a hole for a cat to catch mice. Over time, the rhyme became popular across Britain and later spread worldwide through children’s books and classroom use.
Interesting Facts
- The rhyme was first printed in the 1700s, making it over 250 years old and still loved today.
- Many experts believe the words “hickory dickory” were playful counting sounds used in old English dialects.
- The rhyme is often used to help children learn numbers in order from one to twelve.
- Some cultures translate the rhyme into their own languages while keeping the same rhythm.
- The simple tune makes it easy for toddlers to sing along even before they can read.
- The story of the mouse and clock has appeared in picture books, cartoons, and classroom charts around the world.
Suitable Age & Learnings
This rhyme is most suitable for toddlers and preschoolers aged 2 to 5 years. Its short lines and repetitive rhythm make it easy for young children to understand and enjoy.
- Children learn basic counting skills as the clock strikes different numbers in order.
- The rhyme strengthens listening and memory skills through repetition.
- Kids build vocabulary with simple words like “clock,” “mouse,” “ran,” and “struck.”
- The ticking rhythm supports early phonics and sound awareness.
- Action-based singing improves gross motor coordination and body movement.
- The storyline helps children understand sequencing, such as up, strike, and down.
FAQs
1. What is the rhyming scheme of Hickory Dickory Dock?
The rhyming scheme is AABCCB, where “dock” and “clock” rhyme, and “one” and “down” create a rhythmic pairing in the structure.
2. Why is Hickory Dickory Dock good for toddlers?
It is short, repetitive, and easy to sing, which helps toddlers improve memory, rhythm recognition, and counting skills.
3. Can Hickory Dickory Dock be used to teach time?
Yes, parents and teachers often use the rhyme to introduce the concept of clocks, hours, and basic time awareness in a fun way.
Hickory Dickory Dock remains one of the most beloved nursery rhymes for young children. Its playful story of a tiny mouse and a ticking clock captures attention instantly. The catchy rhythm makes it easy for little ones to sing along and remember the lines. Beyond fun, it gently introduces counting, sequencing, and early vocabulary. Parents and teachers can make it even more engaging with simple actions and creative variations. This timeless rhyme continues to bring smiles while supporting early childhood learning in a joyful and meaningful way.
