Echo songs - especially enjoyable ways to develop singing skills and a love of singing

There are many traditional echo songs which are great for sharing with young children. They are musically interactive, helping to develop confidence as well as skills in singing. One of my favourites is Down by the bay. I love it because of its lilting melody, its humour, and the chance for creativity it provides for children as they make up their own rhymes for the end of the song.

I have introduced it to many groups of children and it is always enthusiastically received. I have also shared it with many pre-service Early Childhood teachers, who have returned from their classroom practicum experiences with stories of how much children have enjoyed it.

Here is a link to a lovely video of a mother and daughter singing Down by the bay together:
Down by the Bay

The Canadian singer Raffi, who has written and performed many wonderful songs for children, is here in the Youtube clip performing Down by the bay. 

If you've never sung this song, consider learning it and sharing it with children. I'm sure both you and they will enjoy it.