Go In and Out the Window Lyrics

Go In and Out the Window is a traditional American singing game dating to the 1800s, performed as children hold hands in a circle while one child weaves in and out of the arches. It suits preschool and early elementary children, roughly ages 3 to 7, since it requires enough coordination to navigate the moving circle without losing the beat. Early-childhood educators often use circle games like this because they combine physical movement, spatial awareness, and turn-taking in a single activity, helping children practice following multi-step directions set to music. The repeating structure, the same simple melody looping as each child takes a turn, means new players can join in and pick up the pattern within a verse or two. As a group activity, it also gives children low-pressure practice waiting for a turn and celebrating a peer's moment in the spotlight. Because it needs no instruments or props, it travels easily from classrooms to playgrounds to family gatherings. For families interested in how movement-based songs like this support physical development alongside music, see How Movement Songs Support Gross Motor Development.

Go in and out the window,
Go in and out the window,
Go in and out the window,
As we have done before.

Go round and round the village,
Go round and round the village,
Go round and round the village,
As we have done before.

Now stand and face your partner,
Now stand and face your partner,
Now stand and face your partner,
As we have done before.