Ding, Dong, Bell
Quick Answer
A short nursery rhyme where a cat is put in a well, then asked who put her there. It’s a classic chant, though some families prefer to soften it by focusing on kindness to animals.
Why This Story Works for Bedtime
It’s quick and memorable. For bedtime, it works best when framed as a gentle lesson: we don’t hurt animals; we help them.
Story at a Glance
RECOMMENDED AGES
3-7 years
READING TIME
1 min
Story Synopsis
“Ding, Dong, Bell” is a traditional nursery rhyme that begins with a bell-like chant and then tells a tiny scene: a cat is in a well, and the rhyme asks who put her there. The classic ending points to a mischievous boy. Because the image can feel a bit harsh, many families use it as a kindness moment: you can add a line about rescuing the cat or remind your child that animals deserve gentle care. Read softly, keep it brief, and make the takeaway clear: we protect, we don’t harm.
Story Excerpt
Ding, dong, bell, the cat is in the well! Who put her in? Little Johnny Green. Who pulled her out? Little Tommy Stout. What a naughty boy was that, To try to drown poor pussy cat, Who never did him any harm, But killed the mice in his father's barn!
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In One Glance
“Ding, Dong, Bell” is a short nursery rhyme about a cat in a well and a mischievous boy who put her there. It’s often used as a quick chant and can be paired with a gentle reminder about kindness to animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
A brief rhyme about a cat in a well and the question of who put her there.
It can feel a bit harsh for sensitive kids, but it’s very short and can be softened with reassurance.
Ages 4–7 (depending on sensitivity).
Add a gentle closing line like, “And we help the kitty get safe,” to keep the mood calm.