Classroom Management Songs

Songs are a versatile tool in the elementary classroom. They foster memory retention, active engagement, creativity, and cultural awareness, and make learning a more enjoyable and effective experience for young students.

Below are some of the songs that I use consistently in the music classroom. Feel free to try them yourself! If there's something you'd like a song for, I'd be happy to help find or create one for you.

And remember, kids truly do not care whether you are a strong singer. It's about the connection with the students, not the musicality or training of your voice!

Hello Songs

Good Morning (Animal)

The audio of this song allows you to say the names of different animals, then have students "sing" the song while making the animal noise. 

Say Hello

I demonstrated one action in this recording; I usually do 3, and I change the actions/body percussion sounds from day to day. You can also let students choose actions.

Scissors, Glue, Pencil Instructions

I use these songs to help young students learn and remember how to use classroom supplies. 

Write Your Name

Turn In Bin (to the tune of "William Tell Overture")

Transition Songs

Everybody Have A Seat - you can change the words and rhymes in this song to keep students listening and engaged. Here are some of the rhymes I use:

Rug - bug, hug, mug, slug, jug

Floor - door, store, shore, dinosaur

Chair/Square - bear, hair, eclair, dare, mare

Come To The Carpet Please

Are You Criss Cross

Can also have students echo you

Alternate lyrics: 

I am criss cross, Body still, Eyes are on my teacher, I am chill

Waiting Song

This waiting song is easy to learn and can easily be adapted to change actions.

Goodbye Songs

ABC You Later Links to an external site.

Skedaddle

Line Up Song

I modified the lyrics to an existing chant, and I sing this with younger students to get them ready for the hallway.