Rock-a-Bye Baby Lullaby
Each child rocks a doll or stuffed animal to the traditional lullaby "Rock-a-Bye Baby," swaying side to side, then lays it down and lies beside it. It's a calm-down with gentle rocking and caring gestures.
How to play
- Each child picks a doll or stuffed animal and sits in their spot (1 min).
- The teacher sings softly while kids sway side to side cradling the baby (1 min).
- Standing, rock the baby like a treetop branch swaying in the wind (2 min).
- The wind stops: lay the baby down, tuck it in, and lie beside it (1 min).
- Whisper good night to the baby and get up slowly (1 min).
Rules
- Handle the baby with great care.
- Rock slowly and quietly.
- Everyone takes care of their own baby.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, stay seated and sing the lullaby twice.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, seated and then standing like the branch.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, in pairs: one is the branch who gently rocks, the other the baby lying down.
Adaptations
- Wheelchair users rock the doll on their lap.
- For blind or low-vision kids, choose a textured stuffed animal and guide the rocking with a hand.
- Autistic children can use a comfort toy from home.
Learning goals
- Calm down with slow rocking.
- Express care and gentleness.
- Learn a traditional English lullaby.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Dolls or stuffed animals: 25
- Soft music
Teacher tip
Sing just the first verse, softly; you can swap the falling-cradle line for "down will come baby, softly to sleep." Keep extra stuffed animals on hand.
PatioLab has "Rock-a-Bye Baby Lullaby" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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