Song of the Month

Every month the song/dance/activity will change. Many of the songs will be from my Recordings. Please print the page and do the activity with your child. Teachers may print the page to use with their classes. If you have questions, Contact Me.

August 2008

Jimmy Crack Corn

Listen to the whole song on Sticky Bubble Gum or hear it here:

In my rendition, Jimmy Crack Corn is a circle dance! Though the original song, also called "The Blue-tailed Fly" dates back to the mid-1800's, this simple version uses only the chorus – not the verses. Getting children moving is my motive – and this song really works! Though best done with 4 or more children – you can do this with even one child – you're circle is more intimate – or you could free dance or skip during the chorus!

If you've not done a circle dance with your children, it may take a little time to get hands held and bodies moving in the same direction. It's worth the practice – it gives children social interaction while promoting cooperation and motor skills. IF your group already know's "Ring Around the Rosey" – be sure they understand that in THIS circle dance, no one "falls down". Practice it BEFORE using the recording!

Lyrics:

Chorus:
    Jimmy crack corn, and I don't care
    Jimmy crack corn, and I don't care
    Jimmy crack corn, and I don't care
    My master's gone away!

Verse:
    One hand up, and one hand down
    One hand up, and one hand down
    One hand up, and one hand down
    And then I turn around!

Put a chorus between verses:
v.2 Both hands up, and both hands down
v.3 One foot up, and one foot down
v.4 Both feet up, and both feet down (it's a jump!)

Directions: Circle holding hands during the Chorus. Do the suggested movement during the verses!

Age Range: 2.5 - 6

Purpose: Dancing promotes pattern and sequence, both helpful for early learners. This dance also encourages social interaction and cooperative behavior.

Other circle dances by Miss Carole: "B-I-N-G-O!" (on H.U.M. - Highly Usable Music), "Looby Loo" (on Tiny Tunes), and coming this Fall on Carole's new cd, Dancing Feet: "Mulberry Bush", "Bluebird, Bluebird", "Somebody's Waiting for Me" and "Sally Go 'Round the Sunshine!" And don't forget "Ring Around the Rosey" – but don't teach it first!

Circle Dance

More Songs of the Month