A spider getting washed out of a drain spout

Itsy Bitsy Spider

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.

Listen as female Australian:

Listen as female American:

Listen as told in a story:

Visited 25 times, 1 visit(s) today

Meaning

This classic rhyme tells the story of a determined spider who climbs a waterspout, is washed down by rain, and then climbs up again after the sun dries it out. The main theme is perseverance — showing resilience in the face of setbacks. Its fun actions (fingerplay) mimic the spider’s journey, making it a joyful, active rhyme for children.
While some claim it has hidden meanings—such as struggles against adversity or societal allegories—its mainstream interpretation remains a simple, positive lesson in persistence and optimism.

Origin

The rhyme appeared in print in 1910 as “Spider Song” (with “bloody” instead of “itsy bitsy”), later adapted for children with friendlier language. It is found in U.S., U.K., and worldwide children’s culture; in the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand it’s commonly known as “Incy Wincy Spider”. The enduring popularity comes from oral tradition, books, and other media.

Time Period

Published first for adults in 1910 and widely used as a children’s rhyme from the 20th century to present.

Why It Became Popular

The easy melody, interactive fingerplay, and catchy narrative about overcoming obstacles make it perfect for preschool and early childhood settings. Its repetition helps children with motor skills and memory, and its upbeat theme encourages learning through play.

First Known Publication

“Camp and Camino in Lower California” (1910) published an early version; later anthologized in folk song collections (e.g., “Camp and Camino in Lower California“, 1948).

Structure and Style

Meter: Trochaic, easy for singing and rhythm play
Rhyme Scheme: AABB
Line Count: 4
Style Notes: Short, repetitive, ideal for gestural games and song

Themes

Perseverance
Nature
Problem-solving
Resilience
Optimism
Action rhyme

Language Notes

“Itsy bitsy” is an American colloquialism meaning very small. Alternative titles include “Incy Wincy Spider” and “Eency Weency Spider.” The rhyme’s repetition, alliteration, and vivid imagery make it easy to remember and perform.

Moral or Lesson

The story teaches persistence and encourages children to keep trying even when things go wrong.

Historical or Cultural Notes

Some suggest allegorical meanings (American Dream, class struggle, or overcoming adversity), but most treat it as a simple children’s rhyme. Its association with playful finger movements has made it a staple in educational and home environments.

Notable Variants

Other versions (lyrics analysis) use different adjectives (“Eency Weency,” “Incy Wincy”) or slightly changed wording to suit regional preferences.

Appearances in Media or Literature

Found in most children’s songbooks, picture books, and featured in TV, music, and early learning apps.

The animated short film “The Itsy Bitsy Spider (1992)” features a playful retelling of the rhyme and stars Jim Carrey, Thora Birch, and Andrea Martin.
Carly Simon’s “Coming Around Again/Itsy Bitsy Spider” featured in the movie Heartburn (1986), is a famous pop adaptation of the rhyme.
Itsy Bitsy Spider – Nursery Rhymes Video For Children (Amazon Prime Video)
Nursery Rhymes – Itsy Bitsy Spider (Amazon Prime Video)

Suggested Activities

Fingerplay Song: Teach accompanying hand motions to act out the spider’s journey.
Art Project: Draw the spider and its environment for classroom display.
Outdoor Exploration: Observe real spiders and discuss perseverance in nature.
Drama Play: Have children roleplay as the spider, rain, and sun.
Rhyme Building: Invent new verses about the spider overcoming other challenges.
Group Recitation: Sing and chant the rhyme together, encouraging teamwork and memory.