🎶 25 Best Summer Songs for Kids (That Parents Will Actually Love Too)
Looking for the perfect summer songs for kids? This ultimate playlist includes upbeat, age-appropriate tracks that will keep kids singing, dancing, and smiling all season long. Whether you’re planning a backyard party, road trip, or just vibing with some watermelon in the sun, these fun, family-friendly songs will bring the good vibes.
✅ Top Picks: Classic summer jams, silly singalongs, kid-safe pop hits, and educational tunes.
🎧 Great For: Pool parties, car rides, beach days, playdates, and more!
🔗 Don’t Miss: Links to karaoke versions, guitar-friendly tracks, and dance-along videos.
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Why Music Matters in the Summer
Summer break means more free time — and more opportunities for creativity, movement, and joy. The right playlist can:
- Spark imaginative play
- Encourage physical movement
- Boost mood and connection
- Provide screen-free entertainment
Let’s dive into the best summer songs for kids that are both fun and appropriate — no awkward lyrics or overplayed TikTok sounds here.
🌞 The Ultimate Summer Songs for Kids Playlist
Here are 25 parent-approved summer songs for kids, covering everything from beachy classics to educational singalongs and modern hits. You’ll find links to Amazon where applicable, perfect for building your summer soundtrack!
🎉 1. Can’t Stop the Feeling – Justin Timberlake
Upbeat, positive, and great for dancing in the kitchen or on the lawn.
Get the MP3 on Amazon
🎸 2. Walking on Sunshine – Katrina and the Waves
A feel-good classic that makes every day feel like summer break.
🏖️ 3. Surf’s Up – The Beach Boys
Introduce your kids to old-school surf rock — pure sunshine in a song.
🦀 4. Under the Sea – The Little Mermaid Soundtrack
Disney magic + tropical beats = instant summer vibes.
🕶️ 5. Best Day of My Life – American Authors
Perfect for road trips and backyard adventures.
🎤 6. Happy – Pharrell Williams
A modern classic that brings instant smiles.
Buy it here on Amazon
🎶 7. Everything Is Awesome – LEGO Movie Soundtrack
Silly, catchy, and kid-approved.
🍉 8. Banana Boat Song (Day-O) – Harry Belafonte
Great for teaching rhythm and beat — and shouting “Daylight come and me wanna go home!”
🐸 9. Jump in the Line – Beetlejuice Soundtrack
Steel drums + fun lyrics = summer dance party.
🏄♂️ 10. Wipe Out – The Surfaris
An energetic, instrumental surf rock hit that’ll have kids air-drumming in no time.
🌈 11. The Ants Go Marching – Super Simple Songs
Educational, repetitive, and engaging for little ones.
Check it out on Amazon Music
🎸 12. You Are My Sunshine – Traditional
Classic lullaby or singalong — check out our list of Easy Guitar Songs for Kids to play this one yourself.
🚗 13. Life Is a Highway – Rascal Flatts
Kids love the “Cars” version — great for summer road trips.
💃 14. Macarena (Kid-Friendly Version) – Various Artists
Yes, they’ll learn the dance. Yes, it’ll be adorable.
🎡 15. The Bare Necessities – The Jungle Book
Relaxed rhythm, positive message, and great for singalongs.
🎈 16. Boom Chicka Boom – The Learning Station
Silly call-and-response song that keeps kids laughing.
🌻 17. ABC Rock – The Kiboomu Kids
Learning meets summer jam — alphabet fun in disguise.
🎵 18. I Like to Move It – Madagascar Soundtrack
Great for movement breaks and impromptu dance battles.
🎂 19. Celebration – Kool & the Gang
Timeless and joyful — ideal for summer birthdays.
🍦 20. Freeze Dance – Music for Kiddos
Dance, freeze, repeat. Keeps them moving and engaged.
🦋 21. Let It Grow – The Lorax Soundtrack
Great for outdoor gardening fun or eco-themed days.
☀️ 22. Sunshine, Lollipops, and Rainbows – Lesley Gore
Light-hearted and full of childlike charm.
🚲 23. Bicycle Race – Queen (clean version)
Teach ‘em classic rock while they ride the sidewalks.
🎠 24. The Wheels on the Bus (Summer Remix) – Super Simple Songs
Bring a fresh twist to the toddler favorite.
🎶 25. Sing – Pentatonix
Great for harmonizing together or inspiring budding vocalists.
Available on Amazon
🎉 Bonus: Karaoke Fun for Summer Nights
Keep the fun going into the evening with these helpful links:
- Best Kids Karaoke Songs for Family Fun Nights
- Best Kids Party Songs
- Most Inspiring Songs for Children
✍️ Final Thoughts
Whether you’re packing for vacation or just vibing in the backyard, a great playlist turns any ordinary day into a magical summer memory. Music is a powerful tool for family bonding, learning, and fun — so turn up the volume and sing along!
👉 What’s your child’s favorite summer song? Share it in the comments!
📌 Don’t forget to pin this list for later!
❓ FAQ: Summer Songs for Kids
What are the best summer songs for toddlers?
Look for songs with repetitive lyrics, animal themes, or call-and-response patterns like The Wheels on the Bus, The Ants Go Marching, or Boom Chicka Boom.
Can I find clean versions of popular songs for kids?
Yes! Many streaming services offer kid-friendly versions of songs like Macarena, Happy, and Life Is a Highway. Amazon Music also has curated children’s playlists.
How can I make a summer playlist for kids?
Start with a mix of upbeat classics, silly singalongs, and newer clean pop tracks. Use Amazon, Spotify Kids, or YouTube Kids to build a safe playlist.
Is music good for summer learning?
Absolutely! Songs build memory, rhythm, and even early reading skills. Educational music blends learning with fun.