5 Little Ducks...

One thing that you will find as you learn childrens songs...is that there are many...many...many different versions!  In the Waldorf world...many of the songs that are sung aren't actually written down...they are just passed down orally from teacher to teacher.  It is interesting to go for training and learn how many ways ONE song is done by different teachers...with different movements...tunes...and words.

Right now as a part of our circle we are doing the children's classic "5 Little Ducks".  

Our lyrics go like this...

"5 little ducks went out one day...over the hills and far away

Mother duck called quack...quack...quack...quack...

and 4 little ducks came running back..."

Then it counts down to zero and we say...

"1 little duck went out one day...over the hills and far away

Mother duck called quack...quack...quack...quack...

and no little ducks came running back..."

"Then the father duck called...

(in a deep voice)

"QUACK QUACK QUACK!!"

(we clap our hands)

"and all 5 ducks came running back.

We do two versions of our movements.  One where we are sitting and doing hand motions...and one where the children run away...and then run back.  They LOVE it!!

Here is a video on youtube that is probably the closest to our version.  Interestingly enough it is the Wiggles!  Very mainstream and not real Waldorf!

Johnny Appleseed...

While the story of the John Chapman has largely been romanticized...I love the idea of a man who traveled...planting food for others to enjoy.  His is a story that speaks to a philanthropy that is not merely giving money...but giving time and effort to seek the good of mankind...even if you may never see the fruits of your labors.

The children quickly identify with this character.  They carefully collect the seeds out of whatever fruit we are eating...and exclaim "I'm going to grow a fruit tree!"  They tuck their seeds in their pockets...and then find the perfect spot to plant them.  (Generally right in a pathway!)

As a part of our circle this month...we are singing the "Johnny Appleseed Song".  It is a traditional song in the US.  It has long been used as a table grace.

These are the lyrics...


Oh, the Lord's been good to me.
And so I thank the Lord
For giving me the things I need:
The sun, the rain and the appleseed;
Oh, the Lord's been good to me.


Oh, and every seed I sow
Will grow into a tree.
And someday there'll be apples there
For everyone in the world to share. 

Oh, the Lord is good to me.
Oh, here I am 'neath the blue, blue sky
Doing as I please.
Singing with my feathered friends
Humming with the bees.


I wake up every day,
As happy as can be,
Because I know that with His care
My apple trees, they will still be there.
The Lord's been good to me.

Here is a video with the tune...but with different lyrics.

I have thought of him when I see old apple tree's growing out on untended land...and wonder if he had anything to do with it!  Perhaps your children will too!