Why Choose Easy Songs?
Learning to play the guitar can be a daunting task for children. Choosing easier songs has several benefits:
- Builds Confidence: Mastering simple songs allows kids to feel a sense of accomplishment. This boosts their confidence and encourages them to keep practicing.
- Enhances Enjoyment: Playing songs they already know and love makes practice feel more like fun than work. Kids are more likely to stick with an instrument if they enjoy the learning process.
- Develops Skills Gradually: Starting with easy songs helps kids develop finger strength, coordination, and basic strumming techniques without overwhelming them.
Top Easiest Guitar Songs for Kids
Here’s a curated list of some of the easiest guitar songs that kids can learn to play. These songs often use simple chords and repetitive patterns, making them perfect for young beginners.
1. "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star"
- Chords Used: C, G, F
- Why It’s Easy: This classic nursery rhyme uses a simple chord progression and a repetitive melody that’s easy to remember.
2. "Mary Had a Little Lamb"
- Chords Used: C, G, D
- Why It’s Easy: This song features a straightforward melody and can be played with just a few basic chords. It’s also a favorite for kids, making it even more appealing.
3. "The Wheels on the Bus"
- Chords Used: C, G, F
- Why It’s Easy: This is another beloved children’s song that has a simple structure and catchy tune. It’s great for sing-alongs!
4. "Row, Row, Row Your Boat"
- Chords Used: C, G
- Why It’s Easy: With only two chords, this song is perfect for beginners. Its repetitive nature makes it easy to learn and remember.
5. "Happy Birthday"
- Chords Used: C, G7
- Why It’s Easy: This is a practical song that every child will want to know how to play for birthday celebrations. It’s relatively simple and consists of a few easy chords.
6. "You Are My Sunshine"
- Chords Used: C, G, F
- Why It’s Easy: This heartfelt song has a simple structure and is often loved by kids and parents alike. Its emotional resonance makes it a great addition to any young guitarist’s repertoire.
7. "Old MacDonald Had a Farm"
- Chords Used: C, G, D
- Why It’s Easy: This song is fun and interactive, allowing kids to add animal sounds as they strum along. It uses simple chords and is straightforward to learn.
8. "If You’re Happy and You Know It"
- Chords Used: C, G
- Why It’s Easy: With its fun lyrics and interactive style, this song is perfect for kids. It uses only two chords, making it easy to grasp.
9. "Let It Be" by The Beatles
- Chords Used: C, G, Am, F
- Why It’s Easy: While it’s a classic rock song, its simple chord progression makes it accessible for young players. The repetitive nature of the song makes it easy to learn.
10. "Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple
- Chords Used: G, Bb, C
- Why It’s Easy: This iconic riff is one of the first things many guitarists learn. It’s simple and recognizable, making it a fun choice for kids who want to rock out.
Tips for Learning Guitar Songs
When teaching kids to play guitar, consider the following tips to make learning enjoyable and effective:
1. Start Slow
Encourage children to play slowly at first. Mastering the movements and transitions between chords is essential before speeding up. This approach helps build muscle memory and confidence.
2. Use Visual Aids
Visual aids such as chord charts and tablature can be very helpful. Consider using colorful charts or apps that show finger placements and strumming patterns.
3. Break It Down
Instead of tackling a whole song at once, break it into smaller sections. Teach the chords or sections one at a time, and gradually piece them together.
4. Practice Regularly
Encourage kids to practice a little every day, rather than cramming all their practice into one long session. Short, regular practice sessions are often more effective.
5. Make It Fun
Incorporate games and challenges into practice sessions. For example, turn learning a new song into a friendly competition or a fun sing-along with family.
6. Be Patient and Supportive
Learning an instrument takes time. Be patient and offer plenty of encouragement. Celebrate small victories to keep motivation high.
Resources for Learning Guitar
There are plenty of resources available to help kids learn guitar:
- Online Tutorials: Websites and YouTube channels offer free lessons specifically designed for kids.
- Guitar Apps: Apps like Yousician or Justin Guitar provide interactive lessons and feedback that can make learning more engaging.
- Books: There are many beginner guitar books geared towards young learners that include a mix of songs and exercises.
- Local Classes: Consider enrolling your child in local music classes or group lessons where they can learn with peers.
Conclusion
Finding the easiest guitar songs for kids is an essential step in nurturing a lifelong love for music. By starting with simple, familiar tunes, children can gain confidence and develop their skills at a comfortable pace. The joy of playing guitar comes from expressing oneself through music, and with the right support and resources, any child can embark on this wonderful journey. Remember to keep the learning process fun, and soon enough, your little one will be strumming their favorite songs with a smile on their face.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the easiest guitar songs for kids to learn?
Some of the easiest guitar songs for kids include 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star', 'Mary Had a Little Lamb', 'Row Row Row Your Boat', 'Smoke on the Water', and 'Happy Birthday'.
What chords are typically used in easy guitar songs for kids?
Easy guitar songs for kids often use simple chords like C, G, D, and Em.
Can beginners play 'Smoke on the Water' on guitar?
Yes, 'Smoke on the Water' is a great choice for beginners as it uses a simple riff that can be played on just a few strings.
How long does it take for kids to learn easy guitar songs?
Depending on practice, kids can typically learn simple songs within a few weeks.
Are there any online resources for kids to learn easy guitar songs?
Yes, there are many online resources such as YouTube tutorials, guitar lesson websites, and apps like Yousician that offer easy songs for kids.
Is it beneficial for kids to start learning guitar with easy songs?
Absolutely! Starting with easy songs boosts kids' confidence and keeps them motivated to continue learning.
What is a good first song for a child to learn on guitar?
A good first song is 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' as it has a simple melody and basic chords.
Can easy guitar songs help with children's musical development?
Yes, learning easy guitar songs can enhance children's musical skills, including rhythm, coordination, and ear training.
What should kids focus on when learning easy guitar songs?
Kids should focus on proper finger placement, strumming techniques, and maintaining a steady rhythm.
Are there specific guitar brands recommended for kids?
Brands like Yamaha, Fender, and Cordoba offer beginner-friendly guitars that are suitable for kids.
