But, just like the garden that yields amazing things must be tended well, we must nurture every child's learning carefully so they can do great things when they are ready. It's important to give them what they need when they need it to continue to foster positive growth. It's also important that they are able to explore their world and discover many things on their own.
In our classroom, we will be learning and using a theme song called, "The Garden". This song was performed by Peter, Paul and Mary in the 60's and 70's. On this page, you can find John Denver performing it on The Muppet Show in the mid 70's.
It really sums up how this Kindergarten year will be for all of us. The lyrics are printed for you below the video and the book. The book is an illustrated version of the song. The video is John Denver performing the song on a 1970's version of the Muppets.
The Garden Song
by David Mallett
CHORUS:
Inch by inch, row by row
Gonna make this garden grow
All it takes is a rake and a hoe
And a piece of fertile ground
Inch by inch, row by row
Someone bless these seeds I sow
Someone warm them from below
'Till the rain comes tumbling down
Pullin' weeds and pickin' stones
We are made of dreams and bones
Feel the need to grow my own
'Cause the time is close at hand
Grain for grain, sun and rain
Find my way in nature's chain
Till my body and my brain
To the music of the land
Plant your rows straight and long
Temper them with prayer and song
Mother Earth will make you strong
If you give her love and care
Old crow watching hungrily
From his perch in yonder tree
In my garden I'm as free
As that feathered thief up there.
CHORUS:
Inch by inch, row by row
Gonna make this garden grow
All it takes is a rake and a hoe
And a piece of fertile ground
