Music For Kids That Adults Can Love Too

Submitted by kristen on October 6, 2011 - 2:48pm

As both a parent and a librarian, I recognize the importance of--and usually enjoy--fun and vibrant music made for children. Classic songs like "Old MacDonald Had a Farm," "The Hokey Pokey," and "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" are wonderful for helping kids learn about the sounds of words through repetition, get ready to read, as well as develop a love for music.

But sometimes we as parents need something a little different--something for the kid in us to enjoy along with our kids.

Luckily, many of our favorite bands and singers want the same thing and are there to help us out. Years ago I discovered a compilation of songs called For the Kids--kids' songs covered by a variety of artists, including Cake, Barenaked Ladies and Billy Bragg with Wilco--and it was just what I needed! Cake has a great cover of the Sesame Street/Muppets song "Mahna Mahna," taking me back to my own childhood. There are now For the Kids Too!, and For the Kids Three!, albums with more fun songs.

Speaking of "Mahna Mahna," be sure to check out the brand new Muppets: The Green Album, with covers of great Muppet Show songs by bands like Ok Go, Alkaline Trio, My Morning Jacket and The Fray with their version of "Mahna Mahna." I happily sang along to Alkaline Trio's "Movin' Right Along" today on my way to work!

Sometimes great songs come along that weren't made especially for kids, but have a fun kid-like quality, like "We're Going to Be Friends" by White Stripes. Check out the list below for other awesome bands and songs that both kids and their adults can love too! What bands and/or songs do you know and love that are great for kids too?

Albums for grown-ups and kids

Not for Kids Only - Jerry Garcia

Nicky's Jazz for Kids

No! - They Might be Giants

The Johnny Cash Children's Album

The Beatles - practically anything

Fun songs my kids and I love

I Feel Just Like a Child - Devendra Banhart

Why Do You Let Me Stay Here? - She & Him

Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

Young Folks - Peter Bjorn and John

Sloop John B. - Beach Boys