I was perusing my iTunes library recently, looking for something else, when I came across a song that we used to listen to All. The. Time.  when Mr. B was a toddler/preschooler.  I mean, on repeat.  Over and over again. Till I found myself quietly cursing children’s television programming and their catchy theme songs.

You catch my drift.

But coming across the song got me thinking about that time period when both of my kids were not quite babies, not quite old enough to handle David Guetta in short doses.  There were some really great songs we listened to, songs that were hits with Mr. B and got the same reception from Miss P.  So I compiled a list of our favorites to share them with you!

Top Toddler Songs

by They Might Be Giants

They Might be Giants brings their effervescent quirkiness to this catchy song that’s easy for little ones to follow.  Giving verbal movement cues, this song will turn your toddler in to a clapping, stomping, jumping machine. What’s not to like about a song that gets your kids moving?

“I Know a Chicken” by Laurie Berkner

Similar to “Clap your hands” in its ability to get your child dancing around, the call-and-response structure to a song about knowing a chicken that can lay eggs that gets your kids singing along.  It also provides an outlet for them to shake and wiggle to their heart’s content in a variety of speed and direction.  Get your egg shakers handy!

“Waltzing Matilda” by Dan Zanes (feat. Deborah Harry)

Yes, you read that right.  Deborah Harry.  Debbie.  Blondie.  Heart of Glass.  She still has a siren of a voice.  This gorgeous Australian song has always been a favorite of mine, and I love what Dan Zanes’ folk style brings to it.  Sure, the subject matter is a little dark, but the strings are gorgeous and the singing and harmony is lulling.

“5 Little Ducks” by Trout Fishing in America

Trout fishing has made a simple song in to something funny, fun and engaging. The banter between the two musicians is hilarious (Mr. B used to be able to recite this verbatim), a nice twist on the classic playground song.

“Mahna Mahna” by Cake

I’m putting my neck out and saying that this is by far the most superior version of the Muppet classic.  What I love about Cake is their coolness, the smooth vocals and funky guitars.  And I absolutely love shouting out along with John McCrea in a good ole “Ah yeah, alright”

“I’m So Glad I’m Here” by Hot Peas ‘n Butter

What kid doesn’t like the opportunity to scream their name at the top of their lungs?  My kids loved the chance to shout their names when prompted in the lyrics.  And it gave us an opportunity to insert silly names for each other as well.

“Jungle Boogie” by The Sippy Cups

This band seems like their 12 hours away from performing the same show at a rave with glow sticks.  I’ve never seen them live, but my youtube research indicates The Sippy Cups put on zany show with a stage packed full of performers, a sensory overload for sure, but also a crazy good time.  Which seems perfectly fitting for this song.  Their versions is more kid-friendly by inserting actual jungle animals in to the lyrics.  Parents:  It still has that booty-shakin’ tempo and groove you know you want to dance to.

by The Wiggles

That’s right, I brought out The Wiggles.  Before you throw food at me, let me explain.  Believe me, I know how The Wiggles can quickly become an overload.

When Miss P was 3 months old (and rejecting her car seat with vocal protest every. single. second of every car trip) we drove to Colorado Springs for a vacation.  The entire 1 1/2 hour drive down, every time we got in the car to go anywhere, and the whole trip back to Denver, The Wiggles played constantly in our car, per Mr. B’s request.

So, I get your eye rolling and gagging if that occurred when you read the song title.

But this song is pretty cute, and encourages healthy snacks, so I can’t really complain too much.

 

 

Any toddler songs you think need to be added to the list?  Voice your choices in the comment section!