The History And Origin of the Song
The origin and history of the nursery rhymes 10 in the bed that is also known as the Roll Over song are unknown; and, so is its composer. However, the song expresses a fun introduction to counting. It refers to ten characters rolling over and falling out of bed one by one in each verse until the last. This presents an easy and memorable way for kids to learn how to count from 1 to 10.
The Ten In A Bed is a wildly popular nursery rhyme that is used to teach counting in preschools and early childhood school classes. It is not only a means of learning, but also an exciting way to introduce kids to learn how to count. In addition, the lyrics of the song produce a soothing harmony and are a perfect match for a lullaby. It is also a long song that lasts several minutes and the repetition of its lyrics produce a relaxing mood that may cause kids to fall asleep while singing.
Contextual Application of The Song
While the original version of the Ten in the Bed has remained popular over time, there are several other alternative versions of the song. However, they do not portray much difference in meaning to the original lyrics. Nonetheless, they are notable for their unique rhyme and effect on the overall flow of the song. For instance, the first alternative to the original lyrics reduces the number of the characters in the bed to 5 and effectively makes it shorter and easy to comprehend for kids. It is also easier to sing and a more friendly introduction to learning how to count. The second alternative lyrics are not much different, but only change the last part of the song that references an empty bed after all have fallen over; and, replaces with a reference two little children in bed who roll over, fall out and the little one says goodnight. The last alternative to the original lyrics references one kid falling in the potty and couldn’t get out of it, and he is directed to tie a knot in their suspenders.
Significance Of The Song
Among all nursery rhymes, the Ten In Bed is notably a unique counting song with some decent versions and some advanced alternatives which can be used for the cumulative introduction to counting for kids. Both parents and teachers can use the song to engage kids in counting and have fun with the song at the same time. However, the crude lyrics in some alternative lyrics of the song do not have any practical use in learning how to count in any way! Therefore, it is a good idea to limit the learning of the song to the main version of the song, which has simple-to-understand lyrics that can empower the kids counting abilities and get them excited about counting at the same time.