Easy Guitar Songs for Kids To Start Learning
Looking for easy guitar songs your kids can actually play (without tears or frustration)? These beginner-friendly tunes are fun, familiar, and perfect for little hands.
As a mother, I’m always on the lookout for ways to nurture my kids’ creativity.
Recently, my son picked up my old guitar and expressed an interest in learning how to play.
I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia as I remembered my own journey with music.
There’s something magical about strumming those first chords, and I wanted to share some easy guitar songs that are perfect for kids to get started on their musical adventure.
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Best Guitar Songs For Kids
1. “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”
This classic lullaby is the perfect introduction to guitar for little ones. The simple melody and repetitive structure make it easy to memorize. Plus, it’s a song that most kids already know, which boosts their confidence as they play!
Tip: You can find beginner-friendly guitar tabs for this song online or in books like Guitar for Kids.
2. “Row, Row, Row Your Boat”
Another beloved favorite, this song is not only easy to play but also teaches children about rhythm and timing. It’s a fun, sing-along tune that can turn practice sessions into joyful family moments.
Consider getting a child-sized guitar like the Yamaha JR1, which is perfect for small hands!
3. “Mary Had a Little Lamb”
This song has a delightful, catchy melody that kids will love. The repetitive nature of the song makes it an excellent choice for beginners, and it can be a great confidence booster as they see their progress quickly.
Don’t forget to grab a music stand to keep your little one’s sheet music organized!
4. “Happy Birthday”
Every child will appreciate learning this song, especially when it comes time to celebrate their friends’ birthdays. It’s a simple tune that they can play to impress their family and friends.
5. “This Old Man”
This fun and rhythmic song is not only easy to play but also introduces kids to fingerpicking. It’s a great way to enhance their skills while keeping practice enjoyable.
Consider picking up some colorful guitar picks they can add a bit of flair to practice sessions!
🛍️ Shop the Beginner Guitar Must-Haves
🎸 Yamaha JR1 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar – Perfect for kids just starting out
👉 View on Amazon
📘 Guitar for Kids Book – Step-by-step instructions for young beginners
👉 Check it out here
🎶 Folding Music Stand – Lightweight and easy to adjust
👉 Grab one here
🎨 Colorful Guitar Picks (Pack of 20) – Fun and easy to grip
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A Little Story
One sunny afternoon, as I sipped my coffee on the porch, I heard the gentle strumming of the guitar coming from the living room.
I peeked inside to find my son, concentration etched on his face, plucking away at the strings. He was trying to play “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” and while it was a bit rough around the edges, his enthusiasm was infectious.
I couldn’t help but smile as he sang the words, his little voice filling the room with joy.
It reminded me of the first time I ever picked up a guitar, and I felt a wave of gratitude wash over me for these moments we were sharing.
I grabbed my phone and captured a quick video, knowing that someday we’d look back at this moment and cherish it even more.
Bottom Line
Learning the guitar can be a delightful journey for kids, filled with laughter, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment.
As a mother, I believe it’s essential to foster these interests early on.
These easy guitar songs are a great way to kickstart their musical journey, and with a little practice, you’ll find them strumming along to their favorites in no time!
🎵 FAQ: Guitar for Kids
What age can a child start learning guitar?
Most kids can start around 5–7 years old, especially with a smaller guitar like a 3/4 size.
What size guitar is best for kids?
A 1/2 or 3/4 size acoustic guitar is ideal for small hands.
How long should kids practice each day?
10–15 minutes a day is perfect for beginners. Keep it short and fun!
Should I start my child on acoustic or electric?
Acoustic is often easier for kids to start with, but it depends on their interest!
Do kids need to know how to read music to learn guitar?
Not at all! Many beginner books use simple chord diagrams and tabs. Kids can start playing songs without reading standard notation.
What’s the easiest way for kids to learn chords?
Start with basic open chords like G, C, D, and E minor. Finger placement charts and color-coded stickers can really help!
How do I keep my child motivated to practice guitar?
🎯 Set mini goals, like learning 1 song a week
🎵 Let them choose familiar songs
🎁 Reward practice with stickers or a “rock star” chart
Is it okay if my child switches between guitar and ukulele?
Yes! The ukulele is a great starter instrument and can complement guitar skills. Many techniques (like strumming) transfer easily.
What if the strings hurt their fingers?
That’s totally normal in the beginning. Try:
- A lighter gauge set of strings
- Practicing shorter sessions
- Letting fingers build calluses gradually
How do I tune a kid’s guitar?
Use a clip-on digital tuner (like this one on Amazon). It’s easy, accurate, and makes tuning less frustrating for beginners.
📌 Want to keep these beginner guitar songs handy? Pin this post for your next practice session!
