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Lullabies and Calm-Down Songs. Quiet songs help children relax before rest time or bed, and they can soothe big feelings during the day. These 6 lullabies and calm-down songs are gentle, slow, and easy to hum.
- 6 songs
- Ages 3–5
- 5–15 minutes
- Actions and ideas for every song
About the lyrics: this page lists song titles, what each song teaches, and ways to use it. It does not reprint lyrics. You can find the words and recordings in children’s songbooks, at your local library, or on official channels from the artists and publishers. Many of these songs are traditional, and versions can differ from place to place.
Quick Picks
Use this table to find a song by type and main skill. Tap a song name to jump to ideas for using it.
| # | Song | Type | Main skill |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hush, Little Baby | Lullaby | Calming |
| 2 | Brahms’ Lullaby (Lullaby and Goodnight) | Lullaby | Calming |
| 3 | You Are My Sunshine | Comfort song | Bonding |
| 4 | Are You Sleeping? (Frère Jacques) | Round | Rounds |
| 5 | Sleep, Baby, Sleep | Lullaby | Calming |
| 6 | Rock-a-Bye Baby | Lullaby | Calming |
Why Lullabies and Calm-Down Songs Help Preschoolers
Quiet songs help children relax before rest time or bed. They’re also great for calming big feelings.
Calming
Slow, steady songs help children relax.
Bedtime routine
A familiar lullaby signals that it’s time to sleep.
Closeness
Singing softly while snuggling builds a bond.
Listening
Quiet songs teach children to listen and hush their bodies.
6 Lullabies and Calm-Down Songs for Preschoolers
1. Hush, Little Baby
Lullaby- Calming
- Memory
What it teaches: A gentle lullaby that lists gifts a parent promises, one after another. It’s a nice way to practice memory and a calm voice.
How to use it: Rock gently and make a ‘gift bag’ of small safe items for your child to find. Sing very softly.
2. Brahms’ Lullaby (Lullaby and Goodnight)
Lullaby- Calming
- Listening
What it teaches: A soothing classical lullaby known all over the world. The slow melody helps children settle.
How to use it: Play or hum it at bedtime. Pat your child’s back to the slow beat.
3. You Are My Sunshine
Comfort song- Bonding
- Feelings
What it teaches: A comforting song about love. It’s a favorite for parent-child snuggles.
How to use it: Sing it while rocking, and make up a verse with your child’s name.
4. Are You Sleeping? (Frère Jacques)
Round- Rounds
- Rhythm
What it teaches: A simple round that shares its tune with Where Is Thumbkin? Older preschoolers can try singing it in a round, and some families sing it in French.
How to use it: Use bells or a small chime for the bell sounds at the end. Try singing in two groups.
5. Sleep, Baby, Sleep
Lullaby- Calming
- Listening
What it teaches: A soft, traditional lullaby for winding down.
How to use it: Sing it slowly with the lights low, and practice a quiet voice.
6. Rock-a-Bye Baby
Lullaby- Calming
- Rhythm
What it teaches: A rocking lullaby with a gentle sway that many families have sung for generations.
How to use it: Rock your child or a doll in time with the beat. Sing it very softly.
Safety and tip: The song mentions a cradle falling, which some parents prefer to change. Feel free to use a gentler ending.
Tips for Singing Lullabies and Calm-Down Songs
- Sing softly and slowly, with the lights low.
- Use the same song at the same time each night.
- Pat your child’s back or rock to the beat.
- Hum if you don’t remember the words.
Pair These Songs with Activities
Lullabies and Calm-Down Songs FAQs
How can I use lullabies at bedtime?
Pick one or two songs and sing them every night. A calm routine, like a bath, a book, and a lullaby, helps your child know sleep is coming.
How much sleep does a preschooler need?
The CDC says children ages 4 and 5 need 10 to 13 hours of sleep a day, including naps. A steady bedtime routine helps.
What if my child wants the same song every night?
That’s normal and comforting. Repetition helps children feel safe. You can add a second song once the first feels like a habit.
Can lullabies help calm a tantrum?
Sometimes. Singing softly, offering a hug, and giving your child a calm space can help. Wait until your child is a bit calmer, and join with a quiet voice.
More Song Types
- Nursery Rhymes (12)
- Action Songs (10)
- Finger Plays (7)
- Counting Songs (9)
- Alphabet and Language Songs (7)
- Animal and Nature Songs (7)
- Transportation Songs (7)
- Routine, Transition, and Friendship Songs (7)
- Lullabies and Calm-Down Songs (6)
- Circle and Singing Games (6)
- Songs for Colors, Shapes, Days, and More (7)
- All Preschool Songs
Keep the Music Going
Pair these songs with free printables, learning games, and our 12-month preschool curriculum.
Sources
This guide is general educational information for parents. It is not medical or legal advice. Always supervise young children during movement activities. If you are concerned about your child’s development, talk with your child’s doctor or teacher.