Note from the songwriter:
I have found that this song can be a powerful tool, even when the majority of children in a group are not yet verbal- the model that parents can provide by asking and reflecting is priceless.
On a personal note- I have found that one of the most powerful things I glean from prayer is through petitioning God for what I initially think God needs to grant, I often discover ways that I can take responsibility towards meeting the goal I am imagining. This is particularly true of Mi Sheberach prayers- I ask God to help a person I love heal, feel better, and I am always reminded that a visit, gift or phone call will help that person, and I should take the steps that I can towards improving their condition. So- I imagine that this is true for many, and Sim Shalom offers a petition that is a)something that each of our family wants/needs b) an effort that each of our community members can contribute towards. I might ask my community members if they can report a time they saw, felt, or did one an example of one of these things.
The “only in your head” verse is an example of audiation- which is a cognitive skill necessary for literacy- it is a big word that I like to teach little ones, and it reminds parents that this enjoyable, emotional connective moments are building cognitive and academic skills, too!
Activity:
Echo. Make up your own voice. Facilitate a discussion asking for examples of what each of these things look and feel like. Ask my community members if they can report a time they saw, felt, or did one an example of one of these things.
Teaching Tips:
I have found that this song can be a powerful tool, even when the majority of children in a group are not yet verbal- the model that parents can provide by asking and reflecting is priceless.
On a personal note- I have found that one of the most powerful things I glean from prayer is through petitioning God for what I initially think God needs to grant, I often discover ways that I can take responsibility towards meeting the goal I am imagining. This is particularly true of Mi Sheberach prayers- I ask God to help a person I love heal, feel better, and I am always reminded that a visit, gift or phone call will help that person, and I should take the steps that I can towards improving their condition. So- I imagine that this is true for many, and Sim Shalom offers a petition that is a)something that each of our family wants/needs b) an effort that each of our community members can contribute towards.
Chords:
C F G
Lyrics:
(echo)
(We ask God)
C
Please give peace,
F
Please give goodness,
G
Please give blessing,
C
Please give grace,
Please give kindness,
Please give mercy
To all people
Please and thanks
(we ask our families)
(we ask ourselves- this time, repeat after me, but only in your head…)
-no echo)