Kids Music That Won’t Drive You BONKERS

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It’s inevitable . . . the book, television show, movie, toy, or (fill in the blank) that most annoys you will be your child’s favorite. I’m looking at you, singing cube toy!

When it comes to listening to kids music, I find that I CANNOT listen to bad kids music. If it drives me nuts, then it has to go!

What do I look for in kids music that won’t drive me bonkers?

  1. I like it. I will genuinely listen and perhaps even sing along. (I’m definitely already dancing to it!)
  2. It’s clever or it teaches a lesson, even if that means it’s also catchy.
  3. It’s well-composed. I’m not a musical savant, but the rhythms and words should sound good together!
  4. And I almost forgot! My kids like it! They’ll dance and bop their heads with me. It is for them, after all!

Here’s what you might hear me playing while we cruise in our minivan . . . 

(Note: I’ve linked songs so you can sample the music, but please support the artist when purchasing music.)

Raise your hand if you grew up watching Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood! Honoring Mr. Roger’s legacy, PBS Kids broadcasts Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, the cartoon land of Mr. Roger’s make-believe neighborhood. They have also produced a couple of music albums! Can I just fangirl on the brilliance of the episode writers for a moment? Basically every milestone or hurdle that I’ve encountered in raising my preschooler, there’s a Daniel Tiger episode (and song!) to address the situation. Yes, they will stick in your head (pregnancy insomnia had me singing these every other night), but when the situation is dire, the song is there to save the day!

  • More Please by Caspar Babypants, Aurora Elephant Music

Okay. This music might drive you a little crazy (check out “I’m a Nut”). But it’s also quirky, funny, catchy, sweet, and . . . you get the picture. One of our favorites is “Run, Baby, Run,” where my son burns loads of energy by doing all the actions described in the song. Also, “Made Up My Mind”  is the sweetest! My husband has been singing it to our daughter since she was only a couple of weeks old. As her first birthday gets closer and closer, you can be sure you’ll hear us blasting two other birthday favorites from this album, “Sittin’ on this Rock” and “Light it Up.”

I discovered these songs flipping through Amazon Music one day and thought, “Hey, these sound familiar!” Sure enough, they were the Sunday School songs from my childhood. These aren’t your slow-moving Sunday School songs, but they’re pumped full of action! My son loves stomping around the room when “Goliath” comes on or pretending to roar for “Daniel and the Lion.” But everyone’s favorite song is what the Donut Man is known for “The Donut Song.” It’s even better if you have donuts (and donut holes) to eat while you sing along! 

“Lullabies that are a little folksy but super sweet” — this is how I would describe Elizabeth Mitchell’s music. “Little Bird, Little Bird,” the song that anchors the album, sounds as if Mitchell is just hanging out, strumming away with some family or friends, and suddenly breaks into song. Added to her voices are the voices of children. This sets the precedent for the rest of the music on the album. Song after song is reminiscent of nature and a different, slower time. I’m especially crazy about her multicultural songs. I adore “Zousan (Little Elephant).” (For a little Japanese lesson about the song, check this out!) Also, her “Little Liza Jane” mentions my hometown! (Can you guess which city it is?)

  • Classical Music by Various Artists

Be it Mozart or Brahm, Tchaikovsky or Vivaldi, I think every child should be exposed to the classics. Not a classical music enthusiast yourself? That’s okay. Classical music is a great way to talk to your children about emotions. My son particularly likes “brave” classical music, but we’ve had lots of good talks about what makes music (and people) sad, happy, or just plain beautiful! So even though it may not be your favorite, explore the classical music world. Try listening for classical tunes on elevators, in commercials, and in CARTOONS! You’ll find there are lots to discover.

What’s your favorite kid music?