Full Lyrics
Five little turkeys by the barn door,
One waddled off, then there were four.
Four little turkeys out under the tree,
One waddled off, then there were three.
Three little turkeys with nothing to do,
One waddled off, then there were two.
Two little turkeys in the noonday sun,
One waddled off, then there was one.
One little turkey better run away,
For soon will come Thanksgiving Day!
About This Song
Five Little Turkeys is a delightful Thanksgiving counting song and fingerplay, a fun twist on classic rhymes like "Five Little Monkeys" or "Five Little Pumpkins." It's perfect for preschool and kindergarten in November, helping kids practice counting backwards while adding silly turkey actions (waddling with arms tucked, flapping "wings").
Children love the humor of the turkeys escaping before the big feast ("better run away!"), the repetitive structure, and pretending to be turkeys marching off. It's great for circle time, Thanksgiving crafts (finger puppets or turkey hats), or family sing-alongs to build excitement for the holiday.
This traditional American nursery rhyme has many cute variations and is a staple in early childhood Thanksgiving activities, often with motions to keep little ones engaged.