“Learning As We Play” offers a collection of songs and activities designed for young children including those who may be identified as “developmentally challenged.” The compilers’ main goal for this recording was to increase the listeners’ development both socially and physically through what are referred to as the three R’s: “repetition, relaxation, and routine.” Many songs familiar to young children over the years are included here, such as the classic counting song “This Old Man,” an adaptation of “Dinah” (part of “I’ve Been Workin’ on the Railroad”), and the gospel songs “Help to Row the Boat Ashore” and “He’s Got the Whole World in his Hands.” Lyrics and suggested activities for all tracks are included in the liner notes.

*Discretion Advised: The liner notes includes language some may find objectionable. Smithsonian Folkways chose not to exclude the notes in order to preserve the historical context of the recording.

Track Listing