Almost a year ago, the album “Songs for Tree” was released into the world. This album is a song cycle that follows a child’s relationship with a tree through the four seasons. It has been a joy sharing the album, and this school year, I am going to build on this body of work by sharing with you a video and blog series. My intention in doing so is that we might explore different ways songs and music can support children in nurturing their love for the natural world.
This work is for everyone- parents, caregivers, educators, grandparents, childcare providers, aunties and more- you are all welcome here!
Every month, for the next ten months, I will share a lyric video and an accompanying blog post. The videos have been intentionally crafted to support a children’s growing literacy skills, offering the lyrics so they (and you!) might sing along. The videos will be released in alignment with the seasons of the Northern Hemisphere, intended to connect children with the natural world through the seasons with song. The accompanying blog post will include some ideas of how you might use the song in different ways, including some curriculum connections.
Inquiry-Based Learning
In many of my posts, you will see me connect the song to inquiry-based learning. Inquiry-based learning is about stepping into the process of learning alongside children. As adults, we attune to the wonder and curiosity of children and go on a learning journey to explore their questions with them.
If inquiry-based learning is new to you, you might want to check out the Child and Nature Alliance of Canada (CNAC) and Natural Curiosity. CNAC offers adult training that includes learning about inquiry-based learning (note- I am a member of their facilitation team!). Natural Curiosity offers a book, filled with stories of inquiry-based learning and resources. They also have a great free self-guided video course on their website about inquiry-based learning (you’ll find me in one of the videos talking about music!).
Staying Connected
I hope this series will inspire you to bring Songs for Tree, and music in general, into the time you spend with the children in your life. Throughout the series, I invite you to share your ideas and experiences in the comments of the blog posts or by dropping me a note.
To support you in connecting with this work, consider doing any or all of the following:
1- Join my email list. I send an email monthly with the latest offering, so this ensures it goes straight your inbox!
2- Follow my YouTube page. This will bring the videos to you the second they are posted!
3- Support my Patreon Account. I am offering this work through YouTube and this blog as I wish to make this work accessible to everyone. Should you have interest in supporting the growth, development and depth of this work, you can do so through my Patreon account.
I hope you’ll join me on this learning adventure, as we explore the power of song to support children in building their relationship with the natural world!
Warmly,
Tiiu
Land Heart Song 
4 thoughts on “Songs for Tree – Video & Blog Series: An Invitation & Introduction”