Back to Classic Stories

Old Woman Under a Hill

Quick Answer

A gentle folk-style rhyme about an old woman living under a hill, often told with playful repetition and cozy imagery. It’s the kind of short, familiar verse that feels like a warm blanket at bedtime.

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

Short rhymes reduce bedtime negotiation: they end quickly and predictably. The repeated phrasing and sing-song cadence help children’s nervous systems settle, especially when read softly.

Story at a Glance

RECOMMENDED AGES

0-6 years

READING TIME

1 min

THEMES
comfortinggentlegentleeasy to understandcomfortingeasy to understandclassic taleclassic tale
Also available inEspañol

Story Synopsis

Old Woman Under a Hill is a traditional-sounding rhyme that paints a tiny picture: an old woman tucked under a hill in her own little world. Depending on the version, she may be busy with small tasks, visiting neighbors, or simply being a memorable character in a rhythmic verse. The main comfort is the repetition—words that come back like footsteps on a familiar path. You can use it as a “closing rhyme,” pairing it with a cuddle and a quiet goodnight. Because it’s brief and non-threatening, it works even on nights when kids are tired and don’t want a long story.

Story Excerpt

There was an old woman Lived under a hill; And if she's not gone, She lives there still.

Unlock the Full Story

Subscribe to Miluna Family and unlock this story plus hundreds more.

  • Unlimited access to all bedtime stories
  • New stories added weekly
  • AI-personalized stories for your child
  • Ad-free, distraction-free reading
See Pricing

In One Glance

Old Woman Under a Hill is a short, folk-style rhyme centered on a memorable character and a simple, repetitive cadence. It functions more like a cozy chant than a plot-driven story, making it useful as a bedtime closer.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s a short traditional rhyme that paints a small picture of an old woman living under a hill.

No—it’s more of a rhythmic verse than a plot, which is why it works well right before sleep.

Ages 0–6, especially as a quick, familiar bedtime rhyme.

Read it slowly, repeat the final line twice, and end with a soft “goodnight.”