When my oldest was a toddler, we participated in some parent-child music classes. Each semester, he would fixate on one song that became his favorite. And then he heard “The Train Song.” Once “The Train Song” entered his world, it was all he wanted to hear. As soon as we started driving in the car, it was train song or bust, or more likely, tears. As soon as the song finished, we had to play it on repeat. No other songs or children’s music existed anymore.
Now that my youngest can voice his opinion, I have to listen to songs that are way less tolerable than The Train Song (I’m looking at you, Cocomelon). As a huge fan of music myself, I have been on the quest to find the best (and most tolerable) children’s albums. After ten years of mom-ing, I am excited to bring you my expertly-gathered list featuring my favorites!
Blazer Fresh – GoNoodle Presents Blazer Fresh (Vo. 1)
If you are looking for catchy rap vibes with educational interludes, look no further than Blazer Fresh. These tunes will have you channeling dance moves from your college days while singing about things such as patterns, vertebrates, and reading fluency. I would tell you what our household favorites are from this album, but we love them all!
Dog Man: The Musical
You may have heard of Dog Man, the wildly popular book series by author Dav Pilkey, but have you heard of Dog Man: The Musical? Created in 2019, my oldest and I had the pleasure of watching the musical when it was at Wharton Center. Soon after, I discovered the album and we have been singing along to it ever since. After we listened a few times, my son proclaimed, “This is amazing! We need to listen to more musicals!” One little warning: there is some crude humor and more than a few potty jokes included in these songs. This one may be better for older children.
They Might Be Giants – Here Comes Science
Catchy tunes, upbeat music, and a whole lot of science information – that’s what you’ll find on this awesome album by They Might Be Giants. Our house favorites include “I am a Paleontologist,” “Why Does the Sun Shine?,” and “Roy G. Biv,” but this whole album is sure to get you and your kids dancing and singing along. This album is They Might Be Giants’ second children’s album, but it is our favorite. We also recommend the song “Seven Days of The Week” from their first children’s album, Here Comes The 123s. Fun Fact – They Might Be Giants also sings “Hot Dog!” From Mickey Mouse Clubhouse!
Barenaked Ladies – Snacktime!
An oldie but a goodie, Snacktime by Barenaked Ladies came out in 2008. Featuring family favorites “Pollywog in a Bog,” “7 8 9,” and “Popcorn,” this album is sure to become highly requested at your house. We love this album because the songs are full of lively music, fun lyrics, and an occasional rap. Put this one on while you are cooking dinner, and we think you’ll start a kitchen dance party in no time!
