Sing Songs and Nursery Rhymes

Ever felt like your living room is one tambourine away from a toddler Woodstock? Welcome to the magical (read: slightly chaotic) world of nursery rhymes, where you’ll sing 'Wheels on the Bus' on loop until you question your own sanity—but hey, your kid might just learn to talk, clap, and maybe even sleep (no promises). If you’ve got a voice, a Spotify playlist, or even just a willingness to fake it, this is your jam.

Research says music lights up your kid’s brain like a holiday parade—boosting language skills, memory, and even emotional regulation. Singing together builds connection, helps your little one pick up on patterns and sounds, and can turn a meltdown into a mini-concert. Plus, you get a dose of dopamine (the happy brain juice) every time you sing, even if you can’t carry a tune.

How to do it

  1. Pick a couple of your favorite songs or rhymes. Bonus points if you can remember all the words!

  2. Weave these songs into your daily routines. Try singing during bath time, car rides, or while waiting in line.

  3. Don’t worry about how you sound—your child already thinks you’re a rockstar.

  4. Add hand motions or silly dances to make things even more fun. This not only brings extra giggles but also helps with learning.

  5. Repeat the songs often, even if you’re tired of hearing “Baby Shark.” Repetition is key for your child’s learning.

Tips:

  • Choose songs your child enjoys or responds to.
  • Use songs to signal transitions (like cleaning up or bedtime).
  • Don’t be afraid to make up your own verses or movements.
  • Keep it playful and relaxed—there’s no “wrong” way to sing together.

When you pick up your child in the morning or after a nap.

Sing the first line of any nursery rhyme (even if it’s just ‘twinkle, twinkle’).
Give yourself a mental high-five or do a little dance move—bonus points if your kid laughs.
Make a playlist of your favorite nursery rhymes and kid songs on your phone or speaker.

When you’re waiting for food to heat up or water to boil.

Point to and sing one verse with your child.
Smile and make a silly face at your child, or give yourself a chef’s kiss.
Print out or stick up the lyrics to 2-3 classic songs on the fridge.

When your child starts to get fussy or bored.

Grab the toy and sing a quick rhyme while tapping the beat.
Clap for yourself and your child, or say, 'We’re a great band!'
Place a musical toy (like a shaker or drum) in the play area.