Music For Changemakers

Children’s music is notoriously annoying. But it doesn’t have to be that way! In fact, there are many children’s artists that will get you singing along with your kids. Even better, music can be a great way for teaching your little changemakers social, emotional, and empowerment skills. If you want to raise kids who will change the world, start by playing these albums:

Alphabet Rockers: Rise, Shine, #Woke

These Grammy-nominated hip hop artists make music that inspire kids to stand up for each other. Their latest album, Rise, Shine, #Woke, was “created to interrupt racial bias and lift up the voices of young changemakers.” It’s full of great songs like “Rise” which features lyrics like “If they call us bad names— look them in the eye If they push us down— be a true ally If they try to build a wall, we won’t comply cause when they go low, we go high.” Check out more lyrics and get inspired here!

Mosaic Project: Children’s Songs for Peace and a Better World

When I was teaching, this album was the soundtrack to my classroom. We would sing “Empathy Song” at morning meeting and “It’s Alright to Cry” when talking about conflicts. Now, I use the album with my own kids to teach them about conflict resolution. My three-year-old loves singing “Fighting is not the solution, try conflict resolution,” when he gets into an argument with his sister. While he may not be old enough to fully embrace conflict resolution strategies, his seven-year-old sister is. These songs serve as great reminders and teaching tools for learning how to get along.

Marlo Thomas & Friends: Free to Be You & Me

How could I forget this oldie but goldie? Though this album was made in the 1970s, it remains a classic. Some of the songs and sketches might seem dated, but songs like “William’s Doll” are great for sparking conversations with your kids. Try using this album to talk about how it was made in the 1970s and how similar and different issues are prevalent now. Plus who can resist singing along to “Free to Be You and Me”?

What are your favorite kids’ albums? Share them in the comments below!