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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
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