It’s incredible how certain songs or books can anchor us to vivid memories and emotions. Not long ago, I had one of these precious moments that not only took me down memory lane but also allowed me to share a piece of my heart with a new generation.

The story begins with a dusty memory of my elementary school days, particularly remembering my music teacher and a song that never failed to make my heart sing, “Froggy Went a Courtin’.” This song, a charming tale hailing from Scotland and making its way to America, became a beloved melody of my childhood. It’s one of those special songs that captures the imagination, full of whimsy and adventure that traditional Scottish folksongs are known for.

My recent reflections were not only shrouded in nostalgia but also filled with a newfound appreciation for music and storytelling’s power to ignite imagination and joy in children. This realization came beautifully to life when my husband, Parish, and I got to read a book to our grandson Spencer’s preschool class. But it wasn’t just any book. It was the story of “Froggy Went a Courtin'”, a song that holds a dear place in my heart. This opportunity was not mere coincidence but a thoughtful act by Parish, who surprised me with the book and had learned to play the song on the guitar. He knew of my deep connection to this melody and how it represented my love for music and vivid storytelling.

On the day of our visit to Spencer’s class, armed with our book and guitar, we embarked on a journey to bring this story to life. Dressed in my best “Mr. Frog” shirt, we sang and read to a room full of eager little faces. Their laughter and participation were the perfect melody to this heartwarming experience. It was a full-circle moment, sharing a piece of my childhood that meant so much to me with my grandson and his peers. The joy in their eyes mirrored my own feelings back when I first heard “Froggy Went a Courtin'”—a testament to the timeless magic of stories and songs.

This experience was a poignant reminder of the importance of nurturing imagination in children through reading and music. It underscored how these moments of shared joy and wonder are not just entertaining but are also building blocks for creativity, empathy, and a lifelong love for the arts. I am immensely grateful for my husband’s support and love, which made this day possible. Sharing this song and story with Spencer and his classmates was a gift, highlighting the incredible bond music and stories can create between generations.

As I reflect on that day and the journey of “Froggy Went a Courtin'” from a Scottish tale to a song that has woven its way through my life, I am reminded of the power of sharing our stories and songs. They are threads that connect us, carrying our history, emotions, and hopes. Let’s continue to sing, read, and imagine with the little ones in our lives, guiding them through the vast, beautiful world of creativity that awaits.

What books from your childhood bring you great joy?

Do you still have those books? Where and when can you read them to children in your community or to the children in your family?