If you’re moving to Barcelona with young children, you’ll soon discover the rich world of Catalan children’s songs and games. One particularly charming tradition is El Ruquet Valent (The Brave Little Donkey). It is a playful song-game that little children adore and that helps connect them to Catalan culture.
What is El Ruquet Valent?
El Ruquet Valent is a traditional Catalan children’s song about a little donkey carrying a heavy load. Additionally, the accompanying game is simple but fun for little ones.
Public Domain Disclaimer
To the best of our knowledge, El Ruquet Valent is a traditional folk song that is part of Catalonia’s cultural heritage and is in the public domain. This means the song, its lyrics, and the associated game can be freely shared, taught, and enjoyed without copyright restrictions. Specific recordings, such as that shared below, are protected by copyright.
El Ruquet Valent is just one of many delightful Catalan traditions your family will discover. Embracing these cultural experiences will enrich your time in Barcelona and help your children develop a sense of belonging in their new home.
How to Play El Ruquet Valent
- Children sit in a circle on the floor.
- One child begins the game as the “ruquet” (little donkey). They place a small object, like a ball, on top of their head. This represents the “load.”
- As short song ends (with the word “caurà!!), the “donkey’s” load falls to the ground and the object goes to a new child.
- Next, that child then becomes the new “donkey” and continues the game with the load passing to another child.
- The game continues with the load being passed around the circle as the song repeats.
The beauty of the game lies in its simplicity and the joy of anticipation as children wonder who will receive the “load” next! Also, they practice their coordination and rhythym with the song.
The Song Lyrics
The song is sung in Catalan, but here are the lyrics with an English translation:
Catalan
El ruquet valent
Porta càrrega, porta càrrega.
El ruquet valent
Porta càrrega i no se’n sent.
Quan se’n sentirà
La cargueta, la cargueta.
Quan se’n sentirà
La cargueta li caurà!
English
The brave little donkey
Carries a load, carries a load.
The brave little donkey
Carries a load and he feel it.
When he does feel it
The little load, the little load.
When he does sit
The little load will fall!
Cultural Significance
This game helps children:
- Donkeys are a common symbol of Catalunya
- Learn basic Catalan vocabulary
- Experience traditional cultural play
- Develop turn-taking and social skills
- Connect with local children through shared play experiences
Tips for Expat Families
- Learning this song and game before arriving can help your children feel more comfortable joining in at school
- Ask local families or your children’s teachers to demonstrate if you’re unsure about pronunciation
- Embrace these cultural games as they provide wonderful opportunities for your children to integrate into their new community
El Ruquet Valent is just one of many delightful Catalan traditions your family will discover. Embracing these cultural experiences will enrich your time in Barcelona and help your children develop a sense of belonging in their new home.
Discover other fun Catalan children’s songs here!
