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Finger Plays. Finger plays are short songs and rhymes with hand motions. They build finger strength, counting skills, and focus, and they need no supplies, so you can do them anywhere. Here are 7 favorites with ideas for using each one.
- 7 songs
- Ages 3–5
- 5–15 minutes
- Actions and ideas for every song
About the lyrics: this page lists song titles, what each song teaches, and ways to use it. It does not reprint lyrics. You can find the words and recordings in children’s songbooks, at your local library, or on official channels from the artists and publishers. Many of these songs are traditional, and versions can differ from place to place.
Quick Picks
Use this table to find a song by type and main skill. Tap a song name to jump to ideas for using it.
| # | Song | Type | Main skill |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Itsy Bitsy Spider | Finger play | Sequencing |
| 2 | Where Is Thumbkin? | Finger play | Finger names |
| 3 | Pat-a-Cake | Clapping rhyme | Rhythm |
| 4 | Here Is the Beehive | Finger play | Counting |
| 5 | Two Little Blackbirds | Finger play | Counting |
| 6 | Open, Shut Them | Finger play | Opposites |
| 7 | Finger Family (Daddy Finger) | Finger play | Family words |
Why Finger Plays Help Preschoolers
Finger plays build hand strength, finger control, and early math. They’re quick, need no supplies, and work anywhere, from the grocery line to the car.
Finger strength
Opening, closing, and wiggling fingers builds the small muscles used for writing.
Counting
Many finger plays count on fingers, a natural first way to learn numbers.
Focus
Children watch and copy the hands, which builds attention.
Anywhere play
Finger plays work in the car, in a waiting room, or at bedtime.
7 Finger Plays for Preschoolers
1. The Itsy Bitsy Spider
Finger play- Sequencing
- Weather
What it teaches: A spider climbs a spout, gets washed out by rain, and tries again when the sun comes out. It teaches persistence and weather words.
How to use it: Touch your thumbs to your opposite pointer fingers to ‘climb.’ Try the Great Big Spider version with big arm motions and the Teeny Tiny Spider with whispers.
2. Where Is Thumbkin?
Finger play- Finger names
- Fine motor
What it teaches: Fingers say hello and goodbye. It’s a first song for naming fingers and for greeting others.
How to use it: Hide your hands behind your back and bring one finger out at a time. It uses the same tune as Are You Sleeping?
3. Pat-a-Cake
Clapping rhyme- Rhythm
- Letters
What it teaches: Children clap along as a baker makes a cake and marks it with a letter. It’s a lovely chance to practice the first letter of a child’s name.
How to use it: Use your child’s initial in the song. Make a playdough cake and press the letter on top.
4. Here Is the Beehive
Finger play- Counting
- Fine motor
What it teaches: A closed fist is a hive, and five bees (fingers) come out one at a time. It’s a classic way to practice counting to five.
How to use it: Count on each finger as it pops out. Make a buzzing sound to go with it.
5. Two Little Blackbirds
Finger play- Counting
- Memory
What it teaches: Two birds fly away and then come back. Children hide and show their fingers, which teaches the idea of ‘gone’ and ‘back.’
How to use it: Stick a small paper bird or sticker on each pointer finger. Fly them behind your back and bring them back.
6. Open, Shut Them
Finger play- Opposites
- Fine motor
What it teaches: Fingers open and shut, then clap, and then go to the lap. It’s good for hand control and for opposite words.
How to use it: Speed up and slow down. It’s also a great signal for ‘it’s time to listen.’
7. Finger Family (Daddy Finger)
Finger play- Family words
- Finger names
What it teaches: Each finger stands for a family member, from the biggest finger to the smallest. It’s a gentle way to learn family words and finger names.
How to use it: Wiggle one finger at a time as you sing, or put finger puppets on each finger. Let your child choose names that match their own family.
Safety and tip: Use names that fit your family, such as grandma, grandpa, or caregiver, so every child sees their own family in the song.
Tips for Singing Finger Plays
- Sing slowly so your child can copy each motion.
- Let your child lead with their own hand motions.
- Use finger puppets or stickers for extra fun.
- Repeat the same finger play several days in a row.
Pair These Songs with Activities
Finger Plays FAQs
What is a finger play?
A finger play is a short rhyme or song with hand and finger motions. It’s a simple way to practice language, counting, and small hand movements together.
Why do finger plays help with writing?
They build strength and control in the fingers and hands, which children need to hold a crayon or pencil. The CDC lists holding a crayon between the fingers and thumb as typical at age 4.
Do I need props?
No. Your hands are enough. Finger puppets, stickers, or paper cutouts can make them more fun but are never required.
What if my child has trouble copying the motions?
Start with the simplest motion and slow down. Move your child’s hands gently through the motions, then let them try. Skill grows with practice.
More Song Types
- Nursery Rhymes (12)
- Action Songs (10)
- Finger Plays (7)
- Counting Songs (9)
- Alphabet and Language Songs (7)
- Animal and Nature Songs (7)
- Transportation Songs (7)
- Routine, Transition, and Friendship Songs (7)
- Lullabies and Calm-Down Songs (6)
- Circle and Singing Games (6)
- Songs for Colors, Shapes, Days, and More (7)
- All Preschool Songs
Keep the Music Going
Pair these songs with free printables, learning games, and our 12-month preschool curriculum.
Sources
This guide is general educational information for parents. It is not medical or legal advice. Always supervise young children during movement activities. If you are concerned about your child’s development, talk with your child’s doctor or teacher.