This song is a perfect example of the power of simplicity and a great song for toddlers. The repetition aids in language development, and it’s tailor-made for adding your own verses. Why does this matter? Check out this article with new research on the value of “shared music”
And don’t forget to take a cue from your little one about how fast to sing. “Children’s” music is often berated for its simplicity and slowness of tempo. But think about the young child just learning to speak. Or think of yourself trying to learn a foreign language. You need the speaking, or in this case singing, to be slowed down so you can process and reproduce the sounds.
Here’s a blog post I wrote on this topic.
Parents and grandparents:
This is a fun song to sing while you’re riding in the car or taking a walk. Ask your child what he or she likes to do, or with babies, “narrate” or sing about what you are doing. This is a fun and natural way to build language and literacy without even trying!
Teachers and Librarians:
If you have a small group you can have each child say what he likes to do and have everyone sing about it. Because the song is so short, it allows time for everyone. If you have a larger group, just take a few suggestions, or show pictures of activities and sing about them. Teachers can have the “helper of the day” choose a favorite activity to sing about.
Like I always say, a song is a jumping-off place; you take it and make it your own!

PERSONAL NOTE: As I often do, I made up this song while playing with my three year-old grandson, and his play directed the verses. So beyond the documented research, that’s how I know it works!

That’s What I Like to Do

I like to ride in the car with you, I like to ride in the car with you
I like to ride in the car with you, that’s what I like to do

I like to go to the park with you, I like to go to the park with you
I like to go to the park with you, that’s what I like to do

I like to cook in the kitchen with you, I like to cook in the kitchen with you
I like to cook in the kitchen with you, that’s what I like to do

I like to ride my bike with you, I like to ride my bike with you
I like to ride my bike with you, that’s what I like to do

I like to sing a song with you, I like to sing a song with you
I like to sing a song with you, that’s what I like to do