Song Lyrics and Free Sheet Music

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Lyrics

Row, row, row your boat
Gently down the stream
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily
Life is but a dream

Row, row, row your boat
Gently down the stream If you see a crocodile
Don't forget to scream!

Free Coloring Page for Row, Row, Row Your Boat

About the Song | Row Row Row Your Boat

Here's what we know about the classic children's song "Row, Row, Row Your Boat":

• Origins: While the exact origin is unclear, the earliest printed version of the lyrics appeared in 1852 with a different tune. The melody we know today was first published in 1881 alongside the lyrics, but it's unclear if Eliphalet Oram Lyte, credited in that publication, composed the tune or simply adapted an existing melody.

• Simplicity: The song is known for its short, simple lyrics and catchy melody, making it easy for young children to learn and sing along to.

• Actions: The song is often accompanied by a rowing action, where participants sit facing each other and hold hands, swinging their arms back and forth to mimic rowing.

• Variations: There are many variations of the song, with some adding additional verses about encountering obstacles or characters while rowing.

• Possible Meanings: The meaning of "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" is open to interpretation. Some see it as a simple song about a peaceful boat ride. Others view it as a metaphor for life's journey, with the gentle stream symbolizing the passage of time.

• Popularity: "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" remains a popular song for parents, educators, and young children. It's a versatile song that can be used for singalongs, playtime activities, or even as a gentle lullaby. You can find many recordings online with different arrangements and visuals.

Here are some additional things to consider:

• The song can be used as a springboard for discussions about transportation methods, bodies of water, or even following directions ("gently down the stream").

• The repetitive nature of the song can help young children with memorization and word recognition.

Five Fun Facts about Row Boats

1. Ancient Origins: Rowboats are one of the oldest types of boats, dating back thousands of years. Egyptians used papyrus reeds to construct rowboats for transportation and fishing on the Nile River.

2. Simple Yet Effective: Despite their simple design, rowboats are incredibly effective for navigating calm waters. The oars act as levers, allowing rowers to propel the boat forward with surprising power and efficiency.

3. Muscle Power: Rowing a boat is a great workout! It engages multiple muscle groups in the back, arms, core, and legs, providing a full-body exercise.

4. Not Just for Leisure: While often associated with recreational boating on lakes and ponds, rowboats have also played a significant role in work and transportation. They were used for fishing, transporting goods, and even ferrying passengers across waterways before the age of motorboats.

5. Racing Rivals: Rowing is a competitive sport with a long history. The first recorded rowing race was held in England in the 1600s, and today, rowing is an Olympic sport with various classes of boats and competitions.

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