Christmas is a time for family, friends, good food, and of course, Christmas music. One of the most beloved traditions during the holiday season is gathering around to listen to Christmas songs.
There are so many great Christmas songs out there that it can be hard to decide which ones to play. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will share some of the best Christmas songs for kids below.
These Christmas tunes below are sure to get you into the holiday spirit!
Christmas Time Is Here
Christmas time is here, and the soundtrack just wouldn’t be complete without the infectiously cheerful tunes of Vince Guaraldi Trio’s ‘Christmas Time Is Here (Vocal)’.
Originally written as part of a Peanuts Christmas Special in 1965, it has since become an iconic classic and perhaps the most recognized song associated with the festive season.
Its playful tempo and bright instrumentation paint an ever-rosy picture of the holidays being full of joy and camaraderie, encapsulated by its delightful vocal chorus that sings about smiling faces bursting with glee.
Even for adults, this timeless tune serves as a gentle reminder to put work aside for a few moments and just soak up the nostalgia associated with this wonderful time of year.
Rudolf The Red-Nosed Reindeer
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer has been a special part of Christmas celebrations for many years, and remains one of the most beloved characters in children’s literature.
Written by Robert L. May, it is an empowered and empowering song that celebrates generosity, kindness, and compassion while also encouraging kids to own their unique qualities and take pride in themselves.
It not only instructs but also encourages self-confidence and standing up for one’s beliefs, teaching invaluable life lessons in a fun and entertaining way. The Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer brand remains iconic of holidays past and present to this day.
Frosty The Snowman
Frosty the Snowman is a beloved holiday carol that fills us with joy every time we hear it.
Born from the lyrical pencils of Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins in 1950, this children’s song tells the story of Frosty, a little boy who builds an endearing snowman friend.
As Frosty and his friends explore all that winter has to offer, they discover they can make wonderful memories each day until heat arrives – unfortunately causing Frosty’s demise. But never fear!
Come next winter, Frosty returns to bring happiness and fun back into their lives. This delightful classic lends itself perfectly to teaching kids the joys of snow and friendship, especially during those cold winter months.
Jingle Bells
Jingle Bells, one of the most recognizable tunes of the holiday season, was widely popularized by James Lord Pierpont and John Blackburn in 1857.
Even though this song holds a special place in our hearts as an embodiment of Christmas no matter where you are, it was the first song to ever use the word “jingle” which has now become so synonymous with it.
The lyrics tell the story of a bell maker who goes out on Christmas Day to have some fun with his friends – skilfully painting a picture for anyone listening. It has had such an impact on children due to its bouncy tune and catchy words, leading to some incredibly creative writing in American folk songs.
As such, Jingle bells is renowned for teaching kids about the true meaning of holiday music through its various versions and styles making every rendition truly unique.
Carol Of The Bells
Carol Of The Bells has managed to capture the hearts of many people with its beautiful music and moving melody.
It was initially written by the Russian composer Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov for a Christmas performance at the Novodevichy Convent in Kyiv.
Its cheerful tune acts as a wonderful way to introduce children to the centuries-old Christmas carol singing tradition.
Despite its traditional roots, Carol Of The Bells is far from a boring song, featuring plenty of surprises throughout its duration.
Its uplifting spirit and relatively easy lyrics have helped it gain immense popularity since its debut, inspiring listeners several generations later.
Up On The Housetop
The holiday season has a long and rich history in music, and no song better exemplifies this than “Up On The Housetop.”
Written in 1934 by John Frederick Coots and Haven Gillespie, the song tells children about the Christmas celebration, from the general good cheer to a realization of the significance of Jesus Christ’s birth at the end of their night.
It is an upbeat tune that kids naturally love singing along with each December, as creative versions and covers surface each year from different recording artists.
The lively rhymes keep it fresh for both kids and adults alike, making “Up On The Housetop” a great way to bring Christmas cheer into any home.
I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day
Christmas is a time for families to come together and put their busy lives on hold. I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day is a beautiful song that expresses this sentiment of wanting to celebrate Christmas all year round.
Written by Paul McCartney in 1979, the song brings a sense of nostalgia while delivering an uplifting message.
With its cheery rhythm and memorable chorus, it has become a classic festive favourite, joining the likes of the second Christmas song released by the band – Merry Christmas Everyone.
Through these songs, we can all appreciate the joy and spirit of the season, no matter how much or how little we have.
Most importantly, they remind us of the importance of cherishing our loved ones and showing appreciation for all we have in life.
Here Comes Santa Claus
As the days get colder and the leaves start turning shades of golden yellow, Here Comes Santa Claus can be heard being sung around the world.
Written in 1950 by Gene Autry and Oakley Haldeman this song brings cheer to young and old hearts alike with its joyful tone and message.
Reminding us all that Christmas is a time of joy, with plenty of fun and something to look forward to. It serves as an inspiration for parents and guardians to keep alive the spirit of Christmas in their homes and share their childhood memories of Santa’s visits with their children.
For many families it becomes a tradition that meets every holiday season, bringing back memories from when they were kids themselves hearing this beautiful melody that promised comfort and joy as far as one could see.
Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland is a classic Christmas hit. Written by Felix Bernard in 1934 for the movie “The Big Broadcast of 1936”, this song about a man yearning to be with his beloved has stood the test of time.
Taking less than a year to make it to radio stations all over the world, Winter Wonderland is an iconic representation of the Christmas holiday season.
Not only is it recognized as part of Christmas culture and tradition, but also its playful music allows it to be fun and entertaining for children of all ages.
From learning the lyrics, to making sure they are in perfect time with the beat – kids love singing and dancing along each year during this magical time that they look forward to so much!
Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
As the holiday season approaches, kids around the world are captivated by one, universally-recognized song – ‘Santa Claus is Coming To Town’.
Written by J. Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie in 1934, this beloved tune celebrates Santa’s arrival and all of the traditions that come along with it.
No matter how many times we’ve heard or sung the song, kids of all ages remain transfixed by its contagious cheerfulness and upbeat rhythm.
The song not only serves as a reminder of Christmas to children but also educates them on feelings synonymous with Santa – excitement, playfulness, happiness – which they can carry throughout the year long after Christmas has passed.
Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer
Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer is a song which was written by Elmo Shropshire, Randy Brooks and John Morris in 1999.
The tune is amusing and filled with nostalgia, as it tells the story of a grandmother going out to get her mail only to be run down by a reindeer.
Although it may seem like a dark topic for children, this song can actually help kids connect positively with their departed grandparents still living in their hearts.
It is a touching reminder of how special these moments were and how much fun they shared with them while alive.
Through its catchy melody and memorable lyrics, Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer is a great way to show children the importance of both honoring and cherishing those we have lost.
We Wish You A Merry Christmas (Silent Night)
“We Wish You a Merry Christmas”, or “Silent Night” as it is sometimes known, has been gracing our ears since the mid-18th century.
This beautiful carol, written by two monks and with its lyricist unknown, has enthralled listeners through the ages and been translated into many languages.
It speaks to a universal hope shared among people of all religions and cultures at this wondrous season.
There is something about this timeless tune that many adults just cannot resist singing along to when it appears on the radio or in a Christmas concert.
And, of course, children everywhere love to join in too! From a variety of musical styles to classic renditions, you can find a version everyone can enjoy at this special time of year.
So if your heart’s desire is for peace and serenity on Christmas day – be sure not to leave out “We Wish You A Merry Christmas”!
The 12 Days Of Christmas
“The 12 Days of Christmas” is a timeless holiday favorite. It was written by Francis Paul and Harry Stone in 1929 as an entertaining and educational way for children to learn about the twelve days leading up to Christmas.
The lyrics are diverse, ranging from simple animals like partridges to humorous enigmas like eight maids-a-milking.
It has also become a traditional cornerstone of carols sung during the festive season. Not only delightful to listen to, this song also serves a unique purpose – it encourages children to appreciate all their blessings, and stresses the importance of cherishing these gifts throughout the entirety of the festive season.
Evidencing its popularity, this cheery tune was voted one of the ten best Christmas songs by America’s premier film institute in 2004.
Christmas In The Trenches
Christmas In The Trenches is a song that was written by Guy Lombardo and John Scott Trotter in 1915.
Not only does this song remind young children that there are many different ways to enjoy Christmas, but it also instills the importance of not taking oneself too seriously and having fun.
Christmas In The Trenches speaks about mischievous children sneaking out at night, playing with toy trains, and going over the top of the trench–all things which remind us that we don’t have to sacrifice our joyous occasions for true appreciation of life and love.
This reminder of nonsensical yet meaningful events is an excellent way to share with your children the real meaning of Christmas: family and friends.
Christmas In America
Christmas in America has been a treasured tradition for many generations. It is especially special for children, as they enjoy being with family and celebrating festive traditions.
A classic reminder of the spirit of Christmas in America is John Denver’s and John Scott Trotter’s “Christmas Is Coming” song written in 1963.
This cheerful tune beautifully captures the American spirit of Christmas by describing how families celebrate the morning of December 25th, from opening presents to sharing special meals with family members.
Through this song, children can learn about their culture’s traditional observance of the holiday season while also discovering how other cultures around the world celebrate.
The sentiment that Christmas has something unique to offer everyone is one that will stay with them throughout their lives.
Christmas Tree Polka
The Christmas Tree Polka is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season!
Written in 1859 by Joseph Mohr and composed by Johann and Karl Vierthaler, this song tells a unique story of how families decorate their Christmas tree each year.
Kids can learn about all the traditions that come with decorating half of a tree with balls, small gifts, stars, and lights.
Not only does this song serve as an entertaining tune for kids during Christmas time but it also serves as a great educational tool for children to understand more about the history behind the simple tradition of putting up a Christmas tree.
As we all keep celebrating this wonderful holiday make sure to take some time out from gift exchanging to listen and dance along to this polka!
The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)
The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire) holds a special place in the Christmas music genre.
Written by Mel Torme and Robert Wells in 1945, it can be said that this festive song was ahead of its time.
Despite being released during World War II, the hopeful and cheerful tune about roasting chestnuts around an open fire resonated with people from all backgrounds.
It gained enough popularity to become a minor hit on the charts but never made it to number one due to the social circumstances at the time.
Kids everywhere will recognize this beloved tune as soon as they hear it and sing along with gusto.
The lyrics reinforce what Christmas really is about—spending quality time with loved ones, appreciating your blessings, and creating happy memories that will last a lifetime. It also serves as a fun way for people of all ages to come together and celebrate during this special season of joy.
Jingle Bell Rock (Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree)
This iconic holiday classic is infectious and fun. The perfect accompaniment to Christmas time, Jingle Bell Rock (Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree) was written by Les Reed and Paul Vance in 1962 – capturing hearts all around the world ever since.
Written to teach children how to do the jitterbug and rock around the Christmas tree, this upbeat song is full of the joy that comes from this special season.
It demonstrates an example of having fun during the holidays and captures all that’s best about sharing this wonderful time with family.
Whether it’s about kids practising their jitterbug moves or reminding them of the shopping that needs to be done, it always encourages people to come together – regardless of age!
Truly a timeless classic, Jingle Bell Rock (Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree) unquestionably embodies a feeling of good tidings every festive season.
The Nutcracker Suite
The Nutcracker Suite, composed by Peter Tchaikovsky in 1892, is a recognizable work to many.
The story follows a little girl with a nutcracker doll which magically comes to life and takes her on an enchanting journey. With its tremendous melodies, graceful dance moves, positive energy and enormous success, it can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
In the holiday season this ballet is especially popular as it expresses the true meaning of Christmas; that it’s not about gifts or other materialistic items but about spending time with family and friends and making each moment count.
It is simply magical how one melody can teach us so much about togetherness and peace as well as filling our hearts up with joyous feelings – this is exactly why The Nutcracker Suite has grown into such an iconic classic!
Silent Night
Silent Night, originally written by French priest Pierre Joseph Perrin in 1818, is a classic carol that captures the essence of Christmas.
The song’s single verse offers an enchanting way to explain Santa Claus: not only does he bring gifts on Christmas night, but he also rewards good children who believe in him.
Children of all cultures can learn the charming song and understand Santa’s power as it has been translated into many languages like English and Spanish.
Silent Night is truly a magical tune that brings together kids from around the world during the holidays with its child-friendly rendition of where gifts are delivered from.
We Three Kings Of Orient Are
We Three Kings Of Orient Are is a song with significant meaning and historical roots. It inspires us to look back at how the journey of the three Magi from the East signified God’s love for mankind, highlighting that even in the darkest moments, there is still hope with faith.
Written by John Henry Hopkins, Jr. in 1857, this carol has been translated into many different languages and cultures.
It offers guidance on how to appropriately celebrate Christmas as it captures the anticipation of great joy coupled with giving and receiving love in our world for one another.
In nurturing minds, We Three Kings Of Orient Are encourages us to reflect on what the holiday season truly stands for – the divine within our humanness!
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus
This song has been popular for generations! This classic song celebrates the spirit of Christmas and the powerful bond between parent and child.
It is a sentimental reminder that families come first, above all other things. The playful lyrics tell a story with a strong message: Parents who don’t behave like “grown-ups” foster memories that can last a lifetime.
Whether it be baking cookies, singing carols or playing games—these types of moments create an everlasting bond of love between parents and their children.
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus encourages this beautiful sentiment by making us remember how much fun it can be to just enjoy being together during Christmas time.
It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
For many families, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas is a fun holiday anthem. Written by Nat King Cole in 1947, this song teaches children about the magic and tradition of Christmas.
The rhythm and beat of words like “trees of green” and “meeting Mr. Claus” make it easy for kids to memorize and sing along with the rest of the family while they decorate their homes or go to a holiday party.
By teaching children about the meaning of Christmas – like the friendly spirit of Santa Claus, familial gatherings, and celebrating the festive season – It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas is more than just popular seasonal tune: it’s a timeless reminder of how to bring warmth and joy into any home during an often cold winter season.
We Three Kings Of Orient Are
The iconic and popular Christmas carol, “We Three Kings of Orient Are” was written by John Henry Hopkins, Jr in 1857.
It has since been translated into many different languages, including English, German, French, and Spanish.
Believed to be inspired by a passage from Matthew, this hymn tells the story of three kings who bring their gifts to a newborn baby Jesus in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve.
Its timeless charm continues to spread joy and pleasure year after year as it is sung during the holiday season all around the world.
This traditional song provides an opportunity for families to come together to learn about and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.
I Wonder As I Wander
“I Wonder As I Wander” by John Jacob Niles is a timeless classic, based on an unforgettable story about Tommy, an enslaved African-American who found himself singing this song in a cotton field.
The lyrics are incredibly inspirational and provide a beautiful reminder of the spirit of Christmas and the importance of celebrating and sharing with each other, regardless of our differences.
At this special time of year, the seasonal carols that parents sing to their children become even more meaningful.
These songs convey the true meaning of Christmas while helping to establish traditions handed down from generation to generation.
This uplifting spiritual track is a perfect way to instill into our kids the essence of Christmas while they enjoy singing along too!