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A cheerful holiday favorite, I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas is a playful rhyme that tells the story of a child’s funny and unusual Christmas wish. Kids love it because of its silly idea and catchy tune that makes singing along fun and memorable. The rhyme uses simple words and repetition, which helps young learners improve listening and speaking skills. It also sparks imagination by encouraging children to think creatively about wishes and dreams. For parents and teachers, it is a great way to introduce rhythm, vocabulary, and joyful storytelling during festive learning time.
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Song Lyrics
Sung with joy and excitement, the I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas words capture a child’s funny holiday wish in a lively and memorable way.
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
I don’t want a doll, no dinky Tinkertoy
I want a hippopotamus to play with and enjoy
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
I don’t think Santa Claus will mind, do you?
He won’t have to use our dirty chimney flue
Just bring him through the front door
That’s the easy thing to do
I can see me now on Christmas morning
Creeping down the stairs
Oh, what joy and what surprise
When I open up my eyes
To see my hippo hero standing there
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
No crocodiles, or rhinoceroseses
I only like hippopotamuseses
And hippopotamuses like me too
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
A hippopotamus is all I want
Mom says the hippo would eat me up
But then teacher says a hippo is a vegetarian
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
The kind I saw this summer at the zoo
There’s lots of room for him in our two car garage
I’d feed him there and wash him there
And give him his massage
I can see me now on Christmas morning
Creeping down the stairs
Oh, what joy and what surprise
When I open up my eyes
To see my hippo hero standing there
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
No crocodiles, or rhinoceroseses
I only like hippopotamuses
And hippopotamuses like me too
Other Versions of I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas Song
This playful Christmas rhyme has been performed in a few fun variations over the years, making it even more enjoyable for children.
1. Lullaby Version
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas,
A sleepy hippo just for me,
I’ll hug it tight and say goodnight,
And dream as happy as can be.
2. Animal Swap Version
I want a little puppy for Christmas,
Only a puppy will do,
I don’t want toys or anything else,
Just a furry friend so true.
3. Short Toddler Version
I want a hippo for Christmas,
A big hippo, yes I do,
It will jump and play all day,
And I will love it too.
4. Action Rhyme Version
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas,
Stomp, stomp, here I go,
Big wide mouth and tiny ears,
Watch my hippo show!
5. Sing-Along Repeat Version
Hippo for Christmas, hippo for me,
Big and funny as can be,
Clap your hands and sing along,
Join me in this happy song!
Gestures – How to Teach I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas to Kids
Adding actions to this rhyme makes it more engaging and helps children remember the words easily. Simple gestures also improve coordination and make learning fun.
- Stretch both arms wide when saying “I want a hippopotamus” to show something big and exciting.
- Shake your head and wave your finger during “don’t want a doll” to express refusal in a playful way.
- Pretend to hold a toy and then push it away to act out “no dinky Tinkertoy.”
- Use your hands to mimic a big animal mouth opening and closing like a hippo.
- Jump lightly in place to show excitement when talking about Christmas wishes.
- End by hugging yourself or clapping to express joy and happiness from the song.
History & Quick Facts
A charming holiday novelty song, I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas was written by John Rox and first recorded by Gayla Peevey in 1953. The song was specially created as part of a fundraiser campaign to help a zoo in Oklahoma City. Its catchy tune and humorous idea quickly made it popular among children and families. Over time, it became a festive favorite played during the Christmas season, especially in schools and family gatherings.
Interesting Facts
- The song helped raise money to bring a real hippopotamus to a zoo, which made it famous beyond just music.
- Gayla Peevey was only 10 years old when she recorded the song, which adds to its childlike charm.
- The rhyme became a seasonal hit and still plays on radio stations during Christmas time.
- Many children enjoy the funny idea of asking for such a large and unusual pet.
- The song has appeared in holiday playlists, shows, and festive performances over the years.
- It remains a classic novelty Christmas song loved for its humor and catchy rhythm.
Suitable age & Learnings H2
This rhyme is best suited for children aged 3 to 8 years, as its simple words and playful theme are easy to understand and enjoy. It supports early learning by combining music, imagination, and repetition.
- Children learn new vocabulary like “hippopotamus,” “toy,” and “Christmas,” which builds language skills.
- The rhyme improves listening and memory through repetition of fun and catchy lines.
- It encourages imagination as kids think about unusual and creative wishes.
- Singing along helps develop rhythm, pronunciation, and confidence in speaking.
- The playful theme teaches expression of feelings and preferences in a fun way.
- Group singing promotes social interaction and participation among children.
FAQs
1. What is the rhyming scheme of I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas?
The rhyme follows a simple and playful rhyming pattern with repeated end sounds, making it easy for children to remember and sing along.
2. Why do kids enjoy this rhyme so much?
Children love it because of its funny idea, catchy tune, and the excitement of asking for a unique Christmas gift.
3. Can this rhyme be used for learning activities?
Yes, it is great for teaching vocabulary, rhythm, and creative thinking through singing and actions.
Filled with humor and festive cheer, I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas continues to delight children year after year. Its simple words and catchy tune make it easy for young learners to enjoy and remember. The playful theme encourages imagination while also supporting language development and rhythm skills. Adding gestures and actions makes the experience even more interactive and engaging for kids. Parents and teachers can use this rhyme as a fun learning tool during the holiday season. Altogether, it remains a joyful and timeless favorite that brings smiles and laughter to little ones.
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