Teddy bear, teddy bear, touch your nose,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, touch your toes,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, turn around,
Teddy bear, teddy bear, touch the ground.
Teddy bears are often very important in the lives of young children. This rhyme can be for babies, toddlers and young children.
RHYME TIME
Babies
- At its very simplest level, the rhyme can be chanted softly to babies as they sit in a rocking cradle, kick on a blanket on the floor or are held closely by a key person.
- It is also a lovely rhyme to use at nappy-changing time as babies' toes are wriggling freely. Tickle their nose and toes gently as you say the words, wriggle your fingers with the words 'turn around' and even change the last sentence to 'tickle your tummy' for even more fun.
Older babies and toddlers
- Older babies and toddlers may be familiar with the words of the rhyme. They are often fascinated by parts of their own bodies and are keen to point to noses or toes, especially if it is made into a reassuring game with lots of laughs.
- Try standing with one or two children and giving them lots of time to mirror your actions:
Touch your nose - beep your nose
Touch your toes - use both hands
Turn around - spin on the spot
Touch the ground - touch with your hands or sit down quickly on the floor
EXTENSION IDEAS
Consider adding verses for special purposes, perhaps at sleep time:
Teddy bear, teddy bear, time for bed
Teddy bear, teddy bear, lay down your head
Teddy bear, teddy bear, turn off the light
Teddy bear, teddy bear, say goodnight!
Judith Stevens is an early years adviser in London.