Overview
This parent-tot activity uses the classic "Five Little Monkeys" song to help young children become comfortable with water movement and gentle submersion. It's a playful, low-pressure way to introduce jumping and going underwater.
How to Do It
Hold your child in thesaddle position(resting on your hip). Move up and down in the water to the rhythm of the song, staying at a depth that feels comfortable for your child.
Lyrics
Sing along as you move:
Five little monkeys jumping on the bed,One fell down and bumped his head,Mama called the doctor and the doctor said,No more monkeys jumping on the bed!
Four little monkeys jumping on the bed,One fell down and bumped his head,Mama called the doctor and the doctor said,No more monkeys jumping on the bed!
Three little monkeys jumping on the bed,One fell down and bumped her head,Mama called the doctor and the doctor said,No more monkeys jumping on the bed!
Two little monkeys jumping on the bed,One fell down and bumped his head,Mama called the doctor and the doctor said,No more monkeys jumping on the bed!
One little monkey jumping on the bed,She fell down and bumped her head,Mama called the doctor and the doctor said,Put those monkeys back to bed!
Video Example
Watch a demonstration of this activity:
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Tips for Instructors
- Let the child set the pace — some will only want chin submersion, others will be ready for full head dips.
- Use a cheerful, sing-song voice to keep the mood light and fun.
- Repeat the song multiple times, decreasing the number of monkeys each time, to build anticipation and repetition.
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