Nursery rhymes are fun little songs or poems that many of us learned as kids. They help children with language, rhythm, and memory, and they are often passed down from generation to generation.
One popular rhyme that many people remember from the playground is Miss Susie Had a Steamboat. It is a hand-clapping game that kids love to chant with their friends.
While it starts off sounding like a sweet rhyme, it is also known for its silly twists and surprise endings that make it extra fun.
About the Song
Miss Susie Had a Steamboat is a traditional American children’s clapping rhyme whose origins date back to at least the early 20th century. It is a playful song that children often sing while clapping hands with a friend.
The lyrics are full of silly twists and clever wordplay, using pauses that make the lines sound surprising or funny.
Miss Susie Had a Steamboat Lyrics
Miss Susie had a steamboat,
The steamboat had a bell,
Miss Susie went to heaven,
The steamboat went to…
Hello Operator,
Please dial Number 9,
And if you disconnect me,
I’ll kick you from…
Behind the ‘frigerator,
There lay a piece of glass,
Miss Susie sat upon it,
And cut her little…
Ask me no more questions,
Tell me no more lies,
The boys are in the bathroom,
Pulling down their…
Flies are in the backyard,
The bees are in the park,
Miss Susie and her boyfriend are kissing
In the dark, dark dark
Similar Songs Like Miss Susie Had a Steamboat
- Miss Mary Mack: Dressed in black with silver buttons, Mary Mack’s story unfolds with lively clapping. Kids enjoy the rhythm and the playful image of elephants jumping over a fence.
- I Had a Little Turtle: A silly rhyme about a turtle named Tiny Tim who takes a bath and swallows soap. Kids love its fun rhythm and playful ending.
- Peanut Butter and Jelly: A fun, rhythmic chant about making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Kids enjoy the silly steps and often add hand motions or dance moves.
- Say Say Oh Playmate: Friendship is the heart of this tune. It gently calls to come out and play, with simple claps and sweet, sing-song lines.
- Boom Chicka Boom: Fun call-and-repeat chant where kids copy silly voices and styles. Full of energy, easy to follow, and perfect for group fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Age Group is Miss Susie Had a Steamboat Best for?
It is Best for School-Age Kids, Usually Ages 5 and Up, Who Enjoy Silly Songs and Clapping Games.
Is Miss Susie Had a Steamboat the Same in Every Country?
Not always. Some places have different words or versions, but the idea and rhythm usually stay the same.
Is there a Dance that Goes with Miss Susie Had a Steamboat?
Yes, it is usually played as a clapping game where two kids face each other and clap to the beat of the song.
