What Are Little Boys Made Of?

Quick Answer

A classic nursery rhyme listing playful ingredients for ‘little boys’ and ‘little girls.’ It’s a sing-song poem many families read as pure nonsense and sweetness, not as a rule.

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

It’s short and musical. For bedtime, it can be a soft rhythm game—and you can modernize the message by saying every child can be made of all kinds of lovely things.

Story at a Glance

RECOMMENDED AGES

2-6 years

READING TIME

1 min

THEMES

gentlecomfortingeasy to understandclassic taleclassic talefamilyfamilygentlecomfortingeasy to understand

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Story Synopsis

“What Are Little Boys Made Of?” is a traditional rhyme that answers its own question with silly, memorable images: snips and snails, puppy-dogs’ tails, sugar and spice, and other ‘nice’ things. It isn’t a story with plot—more a playful chant meant to be repeated. Many families today treat it as fun word-music rather than a strict idea about children. At bedtime, you can read it lightly, then add your own gentle line: “All kids can be made of kindness, courage, and curiosity too.” That way the rhyme keeps its catchy rhythm while ending on a warm, inclusive note.

Story Excerpt

What are little boys made of, made of? What are little boys made of? Snips and snails, and puppy-dogs' tails; That's what little boys are made of, made of. What are little girls made of, made of? What are little girls made of? Sugar and spice, and all things nice, That's what little girls are made of, made of.

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In One Glance

This short nursery rhyme uses playful phrases to describe what ‘little boys’ and ‘little girls’ are made of. It’s rhythmic and easy to memorize. Many modern readings treat it as silly tradition and add an inclusive reminder that every child can be made of many good qualities.

Frequently Asked Questions

A short, sing-song rhyme listing playful ‘ingredients’ for boys and girls.

No—it's gentle and silly.

Ages 2–6.

After reading, add your own line: “You’re made of kindness and love,” to make it extra cozy.