Top 10 Simple Songs for Kids to Play on the Ukulele

By
Chadwick Kautzer
Updated
A happy child playing a ukulele outdoors surrounded by flowers and trees.

Why the Ukulele is Great for Kids

The ukulele is a fantastic instrument for kids, thanks to its small size and lightweight design. This makes it easy for little hands to hold and play. Its cheerful sound is also incredibly inviting, encouraging children to explore music and creativity.

Music is a world within itself, it's a language we all understand.

Stevie Wonder

Learning the ukulele can boost a child's confidence as they see themselves mastering chords and songs. Plus, it's a great way for them to bond with family and friends through music. With just a few simple chords, kids can play a wide range of songs, making it a highly rewarding experience.

Another benefit is the speed at which children can learn to play simple songs. Unlike some other instruments, the ukulele allows for quick progress, which keeps kids engaged and excited about practicing. They can be strumming along to their favorite tunes in no time!

1. 'Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star'

'Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star' is a classic nursery rhyme that every child knows. With just three simple chords—C, F, and G7—kids can easily pick up this beloved melody. The repetitive nature of the song makes it perfect for beginners to build their confidence.

A group of children singing and playing ukuleles together in a sunny park.

This song not only helps kids learn chords but also improves their timing and rhythm. Plus, it's a great lullaby, making it fun to play for siblings or even pets! As they strum along, they'll be creating a calming atmosphere that everyone can enjoy.

Ukulele is Perfect for Kids

Its small size and cheerful sound make the ukulele an inviting instrument for children to learn and express their creativity.

Playing 'Twinkle, Twinkle' allows kids to express their creativity. They can experiment with strumming patterns and even add their unique flair. This encourages them to explore music further and develop their style.

2. 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat'

Another simple song for kids is 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat.' This charming tune uses the same three chords as 'Twinkle, Twinkle,' making it easy to switch from one song to another. The repetitive lyrics make it easy for kids to sing along while they play.

The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.

B.B. King

This song is also perfect for group play, allowing kids to sing in rounds. It teaches them about harmony and teamwork, making practice sessions more fun and engaging. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce the concept of singing while playing an instrument.

By learning 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat,' kids can develop their musical ear. They’ll start to recognize how melodies and harmonies work together, fostering a deeper understanding of music. It's a perfect starting point for budding musicians!

3. 'You Are My Sunshine'

'You Are My Sunshine' is a heartwarming song that kids love to sing. With just C, F, and G chords, it's both easy to play and deeply meaningful. This song's simple structure allows kids to focus on their strumming technique while expressing their emotions.

The beauty of this song lies in its universal message of love and positivity. Kids can feel a sense of connection as they sing it to family members or friends. It’s a great choice for family gatherings or sing-alongs, creating joyful memories.

Simple Songs Build Confidence

Learning easy songs like 'Twinkle, Twinkle' and 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat' helps kids gain confidence and enhances their musical skills.

Encouraging kids to personalize the song can enhance their creativity. They can change a few lyrics or add their special touches to the performance. This not only makes practice more enjoyable but also builds their confidence as performers.

4. 'Happy Birthday'

'Happy Birthday' is a song every child should learn. It's a fun way to celebrate special occasions, and knowing how to play it gives kids a sense of accomplishment. The song typically uses C, F, and G7 chords, making it accessible for beginners.

Being able to play 'Happy Birthday' means kids can be the star of birthday parties. They can surprise friends and family, making the celebration extra special. It's a great way to practice their skills while also spreading joy.

This song also allows children to explore dynamics and expression. They can play it softly or loudly, adding their personal touch to the performance. This helps them understand the emotional power of music and how to convey it through their playing.

5. 'The Wheels on the Bus'

'The Wheels on the Bus' is another fun, interactive song that kids adore. With its catchy melody and hand motions, it’s perfect for group settings. The song typically uses C, G, and F chords, making it easy to learn and play along.

Kids can engage with this song by adding their own verses or motions, encouraging creativity and participation. This makes it an excellent choice for classrooms or playdates, where kids can sing and act out the lyrics together.

Encourages Creativity and Fun

Songs allow children to personalize their performances, fostering creativity and making music an enjoyable experience.

As they learn this song, children can also work on timing and rhythm. The repetitive structure helps reinforce these musical concepts, making it an enjoyable learning experience. It's a great way to combine fun and education!

6. 'If You're Happy and You Know It'

'If You're Happy and You Know It' is a playful song that kids love to sing and perform. With its simple melody and interactive lyrics, it encourages movement and participation. The song can be played using basic chords like C, G, and F, which are easy for beginners to grasp.

This song allows kids to express their emotions and engage with each other through music. They can clap, stomp, or add their own motions, making it a lively addition to any gathering. It’s perfect for warming up before a performance or just having fun.

Close-up of a child's hands playing a decorated ukulele indoors.

Playing 'If You're Happy and You Know It' also helps develop coordination as they strum and perform actions simultaneously. This multitasking can enhance their overall musicality, making them more versatile musicians. Plus, it guarantees lots of giggles along the way!

7. 'London Bridge is Falling Down'

'London Bridge is Falling Down' is a timeless children's song that offers a great opportunity to play and sing together. This song often uses simple chords like C, G, and F, making it easy for kids to learn. Its repetitive structure helps reinforce chord changes and rhythm.

The interactive nature of this song allows kids to play games while singing. They can form a bridge with their friends and let others pass under, creating a fun learning environment. This social aspect makes practicing music even more enjoyable.

By learning this song, kids can also explore storytelling through music. They can create their own verses, enhancing their creativity and engagement. This encourages them to think outside the box and develop their unique musical style.

8. 'This Little Light of Mine'

'This Little Light of Mine' is a beautiful song that carries a powerful message. It's easy to play with just a few simple chords, making it perfect for kids. The uplifting lyrics encourage children to embrace their individuality and share their light with the world.

This song is a wonderful choice for group singing, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. Kids can join in harmony, adding vocal layers to the music, which helps develop their listening skills. It’s an uplifting experience that builds confidence and self-expression.

Encouraging kids to personalize their version of this song can enhance their creativity. They might add new lyrics or change the tempo, making it uniquely theirs. This empowers them to explore music more deeply and enjoy the process of learning.

References

  1. The Benefits of Learning a Musical InstrumentJames C. Brant, Music Education Journal, 2022-05-15
  2. Teaching Kids to Play the UkuleleLinda Brown, Education Weekly, 2020-11-30
  3. The Ukulele: An Ideal First Instrument for ChildrenCatherine Evans, The Music Room, 2023-03-18