Submitted by Shanin Henningsgard, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin

Idea posted October 21, 2009

Our first graders had a Job Day and dressed up in costumes relating to what they wanted to be when they grew up. The teachers asked if I could find a song to go with their Job Day theme. I decided to rewrite the words to "Down By The Bay" (Music K-8 Vol. 18, No. 1).

"When I Grow Up"


When I grow up, there's lots to do.

I'll have a job and work like you.

I wonder what I'll get to be?

Oh, will I write a book or be a fancy cook?

When I grow up.


When I grow up, there's lots to do.

I'll have a job and work like you.

I wonder what I'll get to be?

Oh, will I drive a train or work on a plane?

When I grow up.


When I grow up, there's lots to do.

I'll have a job and work like you.

I wonder what I'll get to be?

Oh, will I build a house or sew a frilly blouse?

When I grow up.


When I grow up, there's lots to do.

I'll have a job and work like you.

I wonder what I'll get to be?

Oh, will I plant a seed or teach kids to read?

When I grow up.


When I grow up, there's lots to do.

I'll have a job and work like you.

I wonder what I'll get to be?

Oh, will I be a doctor or fly a helicopter?

When I grow up.


Oh, will I work in a zoo and fight fire too?

Oh, will I sing a song or cut hair that's too long?

Oh, will I race a car or name a shooting star?

Oh, I can't wait to see what job I'll find for me,

When I grow up!