Table of Contents
“Way Up High in the Apple Tree” is a playful nursery rhyme that takes children on a fun little adventure with apples and a growing sense of excitement. The rhyme follows apples hanging high in a tree and falling down one by one, which naturally grabs children’s attention. Kids enjoy it because of its simple storyline, repetition, and the satisfying “plop” moments that make them giggle. Parents and teachers love it too, as it gently introduces early math ideas like counting backward, along with listening and memory skills. The rhythm is easy to follow, making it perfect for singing, clapping, or adding actions. Overall, it’s a cheerful rhyme that blends fun and learning in a way young children easily connect with.
Way Up High in the Apple Tree Song Lyrics
This classic rhyme is loved for its simple rhythm and memorable lines, and the Way Up High in the Apple Tree words are easy for young children to learn and sing along with.
Way up high in the apple tree,
Two red apples smiled at me.
I shook that tree as hard as I could,
Dooowwwwwwwn came an apple,
Mmmm, it was good!
Other Versions of the Way Up High in the Apple Tree Song
This rhyme has been shared in different playful versions to keep children engaged and learning.
1. Five Apples Version
Way up high in the apple tree,
Five red apples smiled at me.
I shook that tree as hard as I could,
Down came one apple,
Mmm, it was good!
Way up high in the apple tree,
Four red apples smiled at me…
(Continue counting down until zero)
2. Ten Apples Counting Version
Way up high in the apple tree,
Ten little apples smiled at me.
I shook that tree as hard as I could,
Down came an apple,
Mmm, it was good!
Way up high in the apple tree,
Nine little apples smiled at me…
3. Sharing Apples Version
Way up high in the apple tree,
Two red apples smiled at me.
I shook that tree and what did I see?
One for you and one for me,
Mmm, apples are good, as good can be!
4. Animal Twist Version
Way up high in the apple tree,
Two red apples smiled at me.
A little bird said, “Share with me!”
Down came an apple,
Happy were we!
Gestures – How to Teach Way Up High in the Apple Tree to Kids
Using gestures makes the rhyme more engaging and helps children understand the story through movement.
- Reach up high with both hands to show how tall the apple tree is and where the apples are hanging.
- Hold up fingers to match the number of apples mentioned in the rhyme, helping children connect words with numbers.
- Smile and point to your cheeks when saying “smiled at me” to show the apples looking happy.
- Pretend to shake a tree using both hands to act out shaking the apple tree.
- Drop your hands down slowly to show the apples falling from the tree.
- Rub your tummy and smile at “Mmm, they were good!” to show enjoyment after eating the apples.
History & Quick Facts
“Way Up High in the Apple Tree” is a traditional nursery rhyme that has been passed down through oral storytelling and classroom use rather than being credited to a single author. It is believed to have originated in the late 19th or early 20th century, a time when many simple counting rhymes were created for young children. The rhyme became popular in preschools and early learning settings because it combines counting, rhythm, and physical movement in a very simple way. Over time, it has appeared in nursery rhyme collections, children’s songbooks, and educational programs.
Interesting Facts
- The rhyme is often used to teach counting backward, which is an early math skill for young learners.
- Many teachers sing it to different familiar tunes, making it flexible and easy to adapt.
- The apple theme connects well with lessons about fruits, seasons, and healthy eating.
- It is commonly translated or adapted into other languages for early learning classrooms.
- The rhyme is popular during autumn or harvest-themed activities.
- Its repetitive structure helps children remember the words quickly and confidently.
Suitable Age & Learnings
This rhyme is ideal for toddlers and preschoolers, usually between 2 to 5 years old, as it matches their language and attention levels. It supports early learning through repetition, movement, and simple storytelling.
- Counting skills are developed as children learn to recognize numbers and count apples.
- Listening skills improve as kids follow along with the rhythm and sequence of events.
- Memory development is supported through repeated lines and familiar patterns.
- Motor skills grow when children use actions like reaching, shaking, and dropping hands.
- Vocabulary building happens with simple words like apple, tree, high, and down.
- Confidence in participation increases as children sing, act, and repeat the rhyme together.
FAQs
1. What is the rhyming scheme of Way Up High in the Apple Tree?
The rhyme follows a simple AABB rhyming scheme, making it easy for young children to remember.
2. Why is this rhyme good for preschool learning?
It combines counting, movement, and repetition, which helps build early math, language, and coordination skills.
“Way Up High in the Apple Tree” is a timeless nursery rhyme that brings smiles, movement, and learning together. Its simple words and playful actions make it easy for children to understand and enjoy. Parents and teachers appreciate how naturally it introduces counting and listening skills without feeling like a lesson. The rhyme also encourages participation, helping children build confidence as they sing and act along. With its flexible versions and easy gestures, it fits perfectly into both home and classroom routines. Overall, it’s a warm, joyful rhyme that continues to be loved by generations of young learners.
Explore Other Rhymes for Kids:
On Top Of Spaghetti Rhyme With Lyrics
Jimmy Crack Corn Nursery Rhyme With Lyrics
Apples and Bananas Nursery Rhyme With Lyrics
