Go to Sleep (Bye Baby Bunting)

A traditional song to help little ones sleep.

Bye baby bunting,
Daddy's gone a-hunting,
To get a little rabbit skin,
To wrap the baby bunting in.

This sweet and simple lullaby has been sung for centuries, often with babies nestled in their blankets or rocked gently to sleep. Its soft repetition and soothing rhythm make it an ideal bedtime song—especially for newborns.

The Story Behind Go to Sleep (Bye Baby Bunting)

Often known as Bye Baby Bunting, this traditional English lullaby dates back to at least the 18th century, though its exact origins are unclear. It was first printed in collections of nursery rhymes in the early 1700s, and its use of the word “bunting” refers to a small baby wrapped in cloth or swaddling—rather than the bird or decorative flags!

The lullaby paints a tender domestic picture: a baby wrapped up warm, while Daddy goes hunting to provide. In earlier centuries, a rabbit skin would have been a precious and practical item for warmth and comfort—though the imagery might feel a little old-fashioned today.

💤 Variations Over Time

Some versions include extra verses or substitute Mummy, Sister, or Brother into the rhyme. Here’s one common variation:

Bye baby bunting,
Mummy’s gone a-hunting,
To get a little rabbit skin,
To wrap the baby bunting in.

Like many traditional lullabies, the words may shift from family to family—but the soothing message of love and care always remains.