Sometimes the traditions of childhood take on different meanings for each generation. For example, the popular song Row Row Your Boat written by Eliphalet Oram Lyte in 1881 probably does not mean what it did for the original audience. In fact, there is some suggestion that Row Row Your Boat did not even originate as it is currently known. Tradition hints that Dr. Lyte adapted the Row Row Your Boat lyrics that had been used with a different melody to fit the popular round sung today.
Regardless of its early transitions, Row Row Your Boat was established as a staple of entertainment. It is possible that the meaning might have had little significance to anyone, because it was repeated by minstrels as a common supplement to performances. Minstrels were public entertainers who sang danced, recited poetry, etc., usually with the aid of a stringed instrument. Although their performances were certainly infused with important messages, the particular song, Row Row Your Boat, seems to have had no overt statement. Row Row Your Boat was simply entertaining.
Today, Row Row Your Boat is no less entertaining, but it might be a bit more meaningful. That is because the resourceful minds of ThumbPeople Inc. have discovered a way to give the Row Row Your Boat song and others new purpose.
In much the same way that Dr. Lyte adapted the Row Row Your Boat song originally, it has again been transformed, only this time for greater purpose. The Row Row Your Boat lyrics have been adjusted to create a practical message for preschoolers. Row Row Your Boat is no longer simply a traditional round. Now Row Row Your Boat is among several nursery rhymes, similarly altered to create nurturing music for children. The intention is to help kids recognize that they are special to God and have purpose.
A fun song that means almost nothing to a child can certainly be entertaining, but there is potential for it to be much more. For example, teaching a child that what he does matters. By taking popular childhood tunes and adding motivating words, ThumbPeople’s recreated children’s songs have gone from a silly pleasure to an encouraging tool. They are, arguably, more entertaining, because they have application. Of course, nurturing music for children should always be enjoyable. However, it also needs to be meaningful. As the Row Row Your Boat song transitions through new traditions, it might only resemble what Dr. Lyte first developed. Perhaps he would be proud that his little tune has endured for such purpose.
You can place positive, encouraging and motivating messages within your child’s heart that will bless them throughout their lifetime!
ThumbPeople provides families with simple tools through their nurturing music for children, Thumbuddy children’s books, preschooler curriculum and Scripture inspired soaking music that uplifts, encourages and inspires kids and adults to see themselves in a positive light and provides a hopeful and optimistic outlook on life.
