Itsy Bitsy Spider Lyrics

First appeared in print around 1910. The finger-play actions make it a favorite for developing fine motor skills in toddlers and preschoolers. Best for ages 18 months–5 years. The narrative — a spider gets washed out by rain, then tries again — is one of the earliest stories children encounter about resilience and persistence. Occupational therapists frequently use the finger motions to develop pincer grip, hand-eye coordination, and bilateral integration. Sing it slowly at first so children can follow the hand movements, then gradually speed up for a fun motor challenge. For more finger-play and resilience-building songs, see [fingerplay songs for toddlers](/blog/fingerplay-songs-for-toddlers) and our [best nursery rhymes for toddlers](/blog/best-nursery-rhymes-for-toddlers) guide.

The itsy bitsy spider
Climbed up the water spout.
Down came the rain
And washed the spider out.
Out came the sun
And dried up all the rain.
And the itsy bitsy spider
Climbed up the spout again.