What Are the Lyrics To “Pop Goes The Weasel”? It's A Simple & Sweet Melody

Soothing a crying baby can be overwhelming, and there are many different ways parents try to calm a crying baby. But did you know that one of the simplest, most beneficial ways to sooth your baby is through singing to them? Daniella Montalto, a developmental psychologist at the NYU Child Study Center, told Parenting that, “babies like to hear you sing because it mimics their own sound,”which they find melodious. And you don’t have to have a Beyonce-like voice to make this work. Even something as simple as learning the lyrics to “Pop Goes the Weasel,” can be a great way to connect with your baby and help them keep calm.

Besides being a popular nursery rhyme, “Pop Goes the Weasel” has an interesting history. It is thought that the song originated as an English dance in the 1850s, with the“eagle” in the song symbolizing a British tavern that locals frequented at the time. The monkey chasing the weasel is said to represent the idea that financial troubles (i.e. the money) haunted the tavern owners. Although the actual meaning of the song is more suited for adults, “Pop Goes the Weasel” has become so popular, it’s easy to overlook the symbolism for the sake of your child’s sleep schedule (not to mention it’s sure to go over their tiny bald head.)

So next time your child needs help falling asleep, or you just want to see them smile, try singing the lyrics to “Pop Goes the Weasel.”

"Pop Goes The Weasel"

All around the cobbler's bench,

The monkey chased the weasel.

The monkey thought it was all in fun,

Pop — goes the weasel!

A penny for a spool of thread

A penny for a needle

That's the way the money goes

Pop — goes the weasel!

All around the mulberry bush,

The monkey chased the weasel.

The monkey thought it was all in fun,

Pop! goes the weasel.

A penny for a spool of thread

A penny for a needle

That's the way the money goes

Pop — goes the weasel!