A slow rocking song for babies, which can be used as a calming piece or just to let the child enjoy a gentle rock from side to side.
FOCUS AREAS: [proprioception] [low frequency vibration] [calming]
Source: Catch a Song, Deanna Hoermann & Doreen Bridges (1985)
One song, many ways:
- If the child is laying on their back or tummies: Add scarves, ribbons, tissues or any colourful material to swing from side to side, mimicking the melody.
- What other ways can you hold your child and still create that rocking side to side motion?
- Toddlers: You can hold their hands as they stand opposite you, facing you. Swing their arms from side to side to the song. You can also let them hold a scarf/ribbon/tissue to create their own swaying motion.
- Different ways to sing this song: Can you hum? Whistle? Lip trill (blow raspberries)? There are many different ways you can still create the melody of the song with different vocal sounds.
Lyrics:
Heigh di, heigh di ho
The great big elephant is so slow.
Heigh di, heigh di ho
The elephant is so slow.
He swings his trunk from side to side
As he takes the children for a ride.
Heigh di, heigh di ho
The elephant is so slow.
