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‘Ille Bhig

Song type: Calm
Language: Gaelic
Age group: 0-2, 3-5
Audience: Baby, Children, Pre-school, Toddler
Topics: Bookbug, Gaelic

How to use this song with babies

Humming gently is also a great way to make a lively song feel like a lullaby as you cuddle and gently lull your baby.

How to use this song with toddlers

Repetition gives children the chance to catch the words and join in with actions. You can vary songs and rhymes by doing them louder and quieter, or faster and slower.

How to use this song with 3 to 5-year olds

Remember to sing songs or say rhymes slowly and clearly to give children a chance to join in with actions and words.

‘Ille Bhig lyrics

Ille bhig gun togainn, thogainn, (Little boy, I’ll lift, lift)

Ille bhig gun togainn thu, (Little boy, I’ll lift you,)

'S ged a chùm thu mi bhom obair, (Even if you’re a distraction from work)

Ille bhig gun togainn thu. (Little boy, I’ll lift you,)

Sèist (Chorus)

Hai thogainn, hai leagainn,

Hai thogainn ha i ù,

Hai thogainn, hai leagainn,

Thogainn is gun togainn thu.

Tog an gille beag dhan adhar, (Lift the little boy up in the air,)

Mìle rionnag ann a' tàmh, (Where a thousand stars abide,)

Tulg e dhoimhneachd na mara, (Rock him to the depths of the ocean,)

Far bheil iasgan beaga snàmh. (Where little fishes dwell.)

Bidh do mhàthair uairean sàraicht', (Your mother is sometimes tired)

Tulgadh suas 's a' tulgadh sìos, (Rocking you up and down,)

Deòir is doilgheas do mhàthar, (Your mother’s joyful tears,)

Ille bhig, cha d' thuig thu riamh. (You’ll never understand.)