Anna Johnson created “We Bow Our Heads” from her experiences teaching Sunday School for over fifteen years. Her passion for making faith accessible to young children shines through this song’s simple yet profound lyrics.
Johnson’s background in early childhood education informed her approach to creating music that meets children where they are developmentally.
Though not widely known outside church circles, her contributions to children’s spiritual music have touched countless families looking for ways to introduce prayer concepts in age-appropriate ways.
About the Song
“We Bow Our Heads” is primarily a teaching song designed to help children understand both the physical posture and the spiritual attitude of prayer.
With its gentle melody and simple structure, it is especially suited for young children who are just beginning to learn how to communicate with God.
The song is often used as a transition cue in family or classroom settings, marking the shift from regular activities to a quiet time of prayer and thanksgiving.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Song Name | We Bow Our Heads |
| Composer | Alexander Schreiner (1901–1987) |
| Lyricist | Anna Johnson (1892–1979) |
| Collection | Children’s Songbook |
| Theme | Prayer, gratitude, and reverence |
| Biblical Connection | Inspired by concepts similar to Psalm 136:1 and 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (general prayer and thanksgiving themes); also referenced in Children’s Songbook with connection to Alma 7:23 |
| Song Length | Approximately 1 to 2 minutes |
Lyrics of We Bow Our Heads
Verse 1
We bow our heads and close our eyes
And say a little prayer.
We thank our Father graciously
For blessings we all share.
Verse 2
We bow our heads and close our eyes
And ask that thru the day
The Lord will keep us safe from harm,
At home, at school or play.
Meaning and Message Behind the Lyrics
The opening verse focuses on showing gratitude. Young children learn to say thanks for the good things in their lives—from having their basic needs met to enjoying friends and family.
Verse 1
“We bow our heads and close our eyes / And say a little prayer. / We thank our Father graciously / For blessings we all share.”
The straightforward wording makes the idea of gratitude accessible without using complex terms. The tune’s soft rhythm complements the peaceful nature of saying “thank you” to God.
This shows children that prayer can be a quiet moment of reflection, not just a formal practice.
Verse 2
“We bow our heads and close our eyes / And ask that thru the day / The Lord will keep us safe from harm, / At home, at school or play.”
The second verse turns toward asking for guidance and safety. This part teaches children that they can ask God for help with daily situations.
The words show how prayer balances gratitude with asking for support. This section provides an opportunity to discuss trust and faith with children, how asking for help through prayer can bring comfort when facing challenges.
This approach makes spiritual concepts tangible for young learners while respecting their developmental stage.
Why This Song is Perfect for Children?
There are several reasons this particular song connects so well with young listeners.
- Simple Language: The song uses clear, basic words that are easy for young children to understand and remember.
- Short Length: Its brief format makes it ideal for young attention spans and quick learning.
- Repetitive Structure: Repetition of phrases supports memorization and encourages participation from the very first time.
- Promotes Reflection: The song invites moments of calm and quiet, helping children develop mindfulness and spiritual awareness.
- Versatile Usage: It fits well in classrooms, Sunday schools, or home routines, making it a valuable tool in both educational and spiritual settings.
These child-friendly qualities make “We Bow Our Heads” a staple in many educational and spiritual settings.
Related Songs and Prayers for Kids
If your family enjoys “We Bow Our Heads,” here are other simple prayer songs that share its focus on gratitude and prayer concepts:
1. Thank You for the Food We Eat
A simple, joyful children’s table prayer song expressing gratitude for food, friends, and nature’s blessings, with a repetitive and easy-to-sing melody perfect for mealtime.
Used For: Preschool and early elementary children at mealtimes
A heartfelt prayer song for children emphasizing God’s constant love and presence, reassuring them that God watches over and loves them forever.
Used For: Family meal prayers and teaching traditional prayer language
A cheerful mealtime prayer celebrating God’s goodness, thanking Him for sun, rain, and apple seeds, encouraging gratitude and hope with a fun, interactive sing-along style.
Used For: Outdoor meals and nature-focused gratitude moments
Adding these songs to your family’s prayer routine can build a rich musical foundation for spiritual growth.
Each one reinforces the connection between faith and daily life, helping children see prayer as a natural part of their everyday experience.
Conclusion
“We Bow Our Heads” offers a wonderful way to introduce prayer and faith concepts to children. Its straightforward words and melody create an accessible entry point for spiritual education.
By making this song part of your daily or weekly routine, you’re helping young ones build a foundation for their faith journey.
Parents and teachers, consider how this simple song might fit into your interactions with children. Sometimes the most basic songs leave the most lasting impressions.
Would you like to share how you’ve used this song in your home or classroom? Share this song with your community and leave a comment below!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do We Bow Our Heads When We Pray?
Bowing our heads shows respect and helps us focus by limiting visual distractions. This physical gesture signals to our minds that we’re entering a special time of communication with God.
How to Start a Prayer with “Let’s Bow Our Heads”?
Simply say, “Let’s bow our heads,” pause briefly to allow everyone to prepare, then begin your prayer with an address to God such as “Heavenly Father” or “Dear Lord.”
What do You Say Before Opening a Prayer?
Common phrases include “Let us pray,” “Please join me in prayer,” or “Let’s bow our heads.” These gentle invitations help everyone transition into a prayerful mindset.
Can I Say “In Jesus’ Name, Amen”?
Yes, ending prayers with “in Jesus’ name, Amen” reflects the Christian belief that Jesus serves as our mediator to God, giving us access to the Father through Him.
Kelsey Roberts is an accomplished songwriter with a knack for crafting lyrics that resonate with listeners. Having written for both indie artists and major labels, Kelsey brings a deep understanding of what makes a song truly impactful. Her expertise includes everything from song structure to lyrical storytelling. She’s passionate about helping others discover their voice through songwriting, providing tips and inspiration for creating songs that touch hearts.
