The Best Songs for Emotional Regulation in Kids

When your child experiences emotional dysregulation, it can be difficult to know how to help. As parents and caregivers, your primary goal is to support your child’s emotional well-being, but the stress of dealing with emotional outbursts or meltdowns can affect the entire family. Children need emotional regulation skills to manage their feelings, and music can be a powerful tool to help them do just that.

Whether your child struggles with communicating their needs, requires sensory input, or simply needs a way to process their emotions after a difficult day at school, music offers a wide range of benefits. Below are some of our favorite songs selected by music therapists that can support emotional regulation in children.

1. Movement Songs for Energy and Focus

Blowing in the Wind by Stephanie Leavell

This song is a great choice for encouraging communication with carrier phrases like "ready, set, go!" It provides sensory input through structured movement cues while allowing your child the freedom to choose how they want to move. It’s a wonderful song to use when your child needs an energy outlet.

Busy Like a Bee by Stephanie Leavell

Perfect for kids who have pent-up energy and need to burn it off in a controlled setting. This song offers a structured way to engage in movement, helping children to feel calm and centered.

Strong Like a Tree by Stephanie Leavell

For children who need grounding or reminders to use safe body movements, this song can be an effective tool. It helps children visualize themselves as strong and stable, like a tree, and encourages them to stay focused and calm.

Move to the Beat (The Sitting Movement Song) by Stephanie Leavell

This engaging song is great for supporting listening skills while giving children the opportunity to release extra energy. It provides a fun, structured way for children to move and express themselves safely.

2. Cool Down Songs for Relaxation and Mindfulness

Yoga Song by Stephanie Leavell

A wonderful tool to help your child unwind, this song offers simple stretches that promote relaxation and mindfulness. It’s a great way to model movement for your child or let them enjoy it independently.

When I Breathe by Stephanie Leavell

Ideal for introducing your child to mindfulness, this song gently guides them through a mini guided meditation. The soothing lyrics encourage deep breathing, helping your child regulate their emotions and calm their nervous system.

Let It Grow by Emily Arrow

This song incorporates coping strategies like stretching and breathing while fostering themes of gratitude and acceptance. It’s a beautiful way to promote emotional resilience in children.

3. Affirmation Songs for Confidence and Self-Worth

Affirmation Song by Doggyland and Snoop Dogg

An empowering song that reminds children of the positive things they can say about themselves. Perfect for starting the day or for a quick confidence boost before school.

I Can Do Things by Stephanie Leavell

This empowering song encourages children to be brave and tackle difficult tasks. It reminds them that it’s okay to ask for help when needed and that they are capable of overcoming challenges.

I Love My Body by Mother Moon

A great song to promote self-love and body positivity. It encourages children to embrace who they are, boosting their confidence and self-acceptance.

Lovingkindness by Charity and the Jamband

This mindfulness chant has been adapted for children but can benefit the entire family. The lyrics promote kindness, love, and values, helping children develop empathy and self-compassion.

Why Music Supports Emotional Regulation in Children

Music provides an emotional outlet for children to express their feelings and regulate their emotions. Whether through movement, relaxation, or affirmations, songs help children practice self-regulation techniques in a fun and engaging way. These techniques support emotional well-being and help children manage their feelings more effectively in stressful situations.

If you try any of these songs with your child, we’d love to hear how it goes! Incorporating music into your child’s emotional regulation toolkit can make a world of difference in their ability to manage emotions and feel supported at home.