The best kindergarten graduation songs help create lasting memories for students, teachers, and families.
This article shares top picks for happy, upbeat tunes that are ideal for celebrating this milestone event.
Read on for the 32 best kindergarten graduation songs to play!
1. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
“Happy” became a massive hit worldwide, topping charts in over 20 countries and earning numerous awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance in 2015.
The song’s catchy melody, positive lyrics, and upbeat tempo make it famous for all celebrations, including kindergarten graduation ceremonies.
Its message of happiness and positivity is especially appropriate for young children just starting their educational journey.
“Happy” is a timeless and fun song that will bring a smile to anyone’s face.
2. “Have It All” by Jason Mraz
“Have It All” is a catchy and upbeat tune with positive and inspiring lyrics suitable for young children.
The lyrics promote kindness, gratitude, and staying true to oneself.
The song encourages children to be kind, confident, and generous and to strive for happiness and success.
It also emphasizes the importance of taking care of oneself and taking time to rest.
“Have It All” is a positive and uplifting song that would make an excellent choice for kindergarten graduation.
Its inspiring lyrics will leave a lasting impression on the children and their families.
3. “Thank You” by Patty Shukla
The lyrics of “Thank You” by Patty Shukla express gratitude and appreciation for the experiences and friendships made during the school year, as well as the hard work and dedication of teachers and parents.
The chorus of the song is especially memorable and encourages children to express their gratitude:
“Thank you, thank you, thank you, For all you do. Thank you, thank you, thank you, We’re grateful for you.”
The song is often used in preschools and elementary schools to teach children about manners and the importance of showing appreciation for others.
It is an easy-to-remember tune that encourages children to be kind and grateful.
4. “What I Am” by Will.i.am and The Muppets
“What I Am” by Will.i.am and The Muppets is a fun and uplifting song that celebrates individuality and self-expression, making it an excellent choice for a kindergarten graduation ceremony.
The song’s lyrics encourage children to embrace their unique qualities and talents and be proud of who they are.
This is an important message to instill in young children, as it can help build their self-esteem and confidence as they continue to grow and develop.
The upbeat melody and playful lyrics will get children moving and have fun while reinforcing essential values like self-acceptance and respect for others.
The song’s positive message and infectious energy will leave a lasting impression on the children and their families, making it a fitting tribute to the end of a beautiful school year.
5. “One Small Voice” by Jack Hartmann
“One Small Voice” by Jack Hartman is about the power of one individual’s voice to make a difference and create positive change in the world.
It encourages listeners to speak up and share their ideas and opinions, no matter how small they may seem.
The song’s lyrics emphasize the importance of confidence and standing up for your beliefs.
The upbeat melody and positive message make it popular in children’s music programs and classrooms.
6. “(I’ve Had) the Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes
“(I’ve Had) the Time of My Life” is a classic song from the 1987 film “Dirty Dancing”.
The song is known for its upbeat tempo and powerful vocals and has become a popular choice for dance parties and other celebratory events.
The lyrics describe a feeling of joy and happiness after finding love and experiencing new adventures.
The song was a huge commercial success, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
7. “Let’s Graduate!” by The Kiboomers
“Let’s Graduate!” by The Kiboomers encourages children to celebrate their achievement of completing kindergarten and moving on to the next chapter in their lives.
The lyrics are simple and easy for young children to understand, with a chorus repeating “Let’s graduate” multiple times.
The verses describe some things children learn in kindergarten, such as counting, reading, and writing.
The song also features a catchy melody that is easy to sing along with, making it a fun and engaging choice for young children.
It is often accompanied by simple dance moves or actions that children can follow, adding to the celebratory atmosphere of the graduation ceremony.
8. “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey
“Don’t Stop Believing” was released in 1981 and has become one of the band’s most popular and enduring hits.
The song has a powerful and uplifting message that has resonated with listeners for decades.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a small-town girl and a city boy looking for something more in life.
The song’s chorus encourages the listener to “Don’t stop believing” in their dreams and to hold on to the feeling that anything is possible.
“Don’t Stop Believing” has become a beloved anthem for many people, often played at sporting events, graduation parties, and other celebratory occasions.
It has also been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its place in popular culture.
9. “What a Wonderful World” by Louis B. Armstrong
“What a Wonderful World” has a timeless message of hope, optimism, and wonder that is perfect for celebrating the achievements of young children as they prepare to move on to the next chapter of their lives.
The song’s uplifting melody and simple lyrics make it easy for young children to sing along and feel inspired.
The lyrics encourage children to appreciate the world’s beauty and be grateful for their many blessings.
As a kindergarten graduation song, “What a Wonderful World” is a fitting tribute to the hard work, dedication, and growth that young children have experienced throughout the school year.
It reminds them that there is so much to look forward to and that they can create a bright and beautiful future for themselves and the world.
10. “Forever Young” by Rod Stewart
The message of “Forever Young” is about staying young at heart and cherishing the memories and experiences of youth.
The lyrics are simple and easy to understand for young children, making it a great song for them to sing along with or for a choir to perform.
Additionally, the melody is catchy and uplifting, which can help to create a positive and inspiring atmosphere during the ceremony.
“Forever Young” by Rod Stewart is a timeless classic that people of all ages can enjoy, and it’s an excellent choice for a kindergarten graduation song.
See also: Best Rod Stewart Songs
11. “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Randy Newman
“You’ve Got a Friend in Me’s” upbeat tempo and playful lyrics make it perfect for celebrating the end of the school year and the friendships that have formed during it.
It was first released in 1995 as the theme song for the movie Toy Story and has since become one of Newman’s most well-known songs.
The song’s lyrics emphasize the importance of friendship and loyalty, with lines like “You’ve got a friend in me / You’ve got a friend in me / When the road looks rough ahead / And you’re miles and miles from your nice warm bed.”
12. “Celebration” by Kool and the Gang
“Celebration” by Kool and the Gang is an upbeat and joyful anthem that encourages listeners to celebrate good times and unite in a spirit of unity and positivity.
The memorable chorus, “Celebrate good times, come on! (Let’s celebrate)”, has become a famous catchphrase and is often played at graduation parties and other celebrations.
“Celebration” has been covered and remixed by numerous artists over the years and featured in several films, TV shows, and commercials.
It remains a beloved classic and an enduring symbol of joy and togetherness.
13. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds
“Don’t You (Forget About Me)” was written specifically for the soundtrack of the iconic coming-of-age film, “The Breakfast Club.”
The song’s catchy melody and powerful chorus have made it an enduring classic and a popular choice for many parties and events.
The song’s lyrics are about the desire to be remembered and not forgotten, which resonates with many listeners.
The song’s music video features footage from “The Breakfast Club” and has become a nostalgic favorite for many film fans.
14. “Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson
The uplifting and empowering lyrics of “Breakaway” are perfect for celebrating the children’s achievements and encouraging them to continue to follow their dreams as they move on to the next phase of their lives.
These lyrics encourage children to be bold, take risks, and chase their dreams.
They remind the graduates that they have the power to shape their own lives and achieve great things if they believe in themselves and work hard.
15. “Thank You for Being a Friend” by Andrew Gold
“Thank You for Being a Friend” by Andrew Gold celebrates the importance of friendship and the support that friends provide.
The song is a valuable lesson for children as they prepare to move on to the next phase of their lives.
These lyrics remind children of the value of friendship and the importance of being there for one another.
They also acknowledge the journey the children have taken together and their shared memories and experiences.
“Thank You for Being a Friend” is a sweet and sentimental choice for a kindergarten graduation song that will leave children feeling appreciated and connected to their classmates.
16. “I’m Learning to Fly” by Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers
“I’m Learning to Fly” by Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers talks about learning and growing and the idea that even though it can be scary to try new things, it’s essential to take risks and have faith in oneself.
The lyrics speak to breaking free from the past and confidently moving forward.
The chorus of the song repeats the phrase, “I’m learning to fly, but I ain’t got wings,” which can be interpreted in different ways but generally speaks to the idea of striving for something that seems unattainable or taking on a new challenge without knowing exactly how to succeed.
It’s a metaphor for the process of personal growth and self-discovery.
17. “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King
The message of “Stand By Me” is of friendship, loyalty, and support is perfect for celebrating the end of a school year and the beginning of a new chapter in a child’s life.
The lyrics are simple and easy to understand, which makes it ideal for young children to learn and sing along.
The melody is memorable, meaning that kids can recall the song even after graduating from kindergarten.
It’s a classic that has stood the test of time, and it’s a perfect opportunity for families to come together and celebrate their child’s achievements.
18. “Firework” by Katy Perry
The lyrics of “Firework” are inspiring and motivational, encouraging children to be confident and believe in themselves.
The song’s uplifting message can also help instill confidence and self-belief in children as they move on to the next stage of their lives.
The song’s chorus, in particular, is easy to sing along to and can serve as a rallying cry for anyone looking to find their inner strength and confidence.
One of the most notable aspects of “Firework” is its message of inclusivity and acceptance.
The song encourages listeners to be proud of who they are and to celebrate their unique qualities and talents.
This message can be significant for children who may be struggling with self-doubt or feelings of insecurity.
19. “The Bare Necessities” by Phil Harris and Bruce Reitherman
“The Bare Necessities” is a song from the 1967 animated Disney film “The Jungle Book.”
The song’s message about living a simple and carefree life is also an excellent reminder for children and adults alike.
The lyrics talk about the necessities of life, such as food and shelter, and how one can live a happy life without all the material possessions that society often values.
The melody and fun lyrics make it an enjoyable tune for young children to sing and dance to.
See also: Best Disney Songs
20. “You’re My Best Friend” by Queen
“You’re My Best Friend” by Queen was released as a single in 1976 and later appeared on the band’s album A Night at the Opera.
The song features lead vocals by Freddie Mercury, who sings about the joys of friendship and the special bond he shares with his best friend.
The lyrics express the sentiment that true friendship is one of the most valuable things in life and that having someone to confide in and rely on is a source of great happiness.
It remains a beloved classic to this day and is often played at graduations, weddings, and other celebrations as a testament to the enduring power of friendship.
21. “I’ll Be There for You” by The Rembrandts
“I’ll Be There for You” gained widespread popularity as the theme song for the hit TV show “Friends,” and its message of loyalty and support has resonated with audiences of all ages.
The song’s upbeat melody and lyrics convey a message of friendship and support, making it a popular choice for graduations, weddings, and other celebratory occasions.
“I’ll Be There for You” was a massive success for The Rembrandts, reaching number one in several countries and earning them a Grammy nomination.
The song’s popularity has endured for decades, and it continues to be a favorite among fans of the show and music lovers alike.
22. “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge
The lyrics of “We Are Family” are easy to understand and sing along to, making it a perfect choice for young children.
These lyrics promote a sense of togetherness and encourage children to celebrate their classmates as members of their extended “family.”
“We Are Family” was a hit when it was first released in 1979 and has remained popular.
It has been covered by numerous artists and used in various movies and TV shows.
Its enduring popularity makes it an excellent choice for a kindergarten graduation song that parents and children can enjoy.
23. “Fly” by Avril Lavigne
“Fly” was initially written as a tribute to the Special Olympics and its athletes and was used as the theme song for the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games.
The song was later released as a single, and its message of perseverance and self-confidence resonated with audiences worldwide.
“Fly” has a positive and uplifting message that encourages children to be confident in themselves and their abilities as they move on to the next chapter of their lives.
These lyrics are a great reminder to children that they have the strength and ability to overcome any obstacles they may face.
The song’s melody is also catchy and fun, making it an excellent choice for graduation ceremonies.
24. “Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy)” by John Lennon
“Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy)” was written by Lennon for his son, Sean, and is a testament to children’s love and joy in our lives.
These lyrics celebrate childhood’s beauty and innocence and the joy children bring into the world.
The song also includes the line, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans,” which is a poignant reminder to parents and children alike to appreciate the present moment and cherish their time together.
It is a song that celebrates the special bond between parents and children and the love and support that families provide to one another.
25. “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers
“Lean on Me” has a universal message of friendship, support, and unity that young children can understand and appreciate.
These lyrics convey the importance of relying on friends and family during difficult times and the value of being there for others when they need support.
They also emphasize the importance of building solid and lasting relationships with those around us.
The song’s positive and uplifting message will inspire children to be there for each other as they navigate the challenges of growing up.
26. “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion
“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion expresses gratitude and appreciation for the love and support parents, teachers, and caregivers provide children, making it a perfect fit for a graduation ceremony celebrating their academic achievements.
The song is a power ballad that expresses gratitude for the unwavering love and support shown to a loved one.
It highlights the importance of having someone who believes in you and helps you achieve your dreams.
These are valuable messages that children can carry with them as they move on to the next phase of their lives.
Children will enjoy singing along to the song’s catchy chorus and feel proud of their accomplishments as they reflect on their kindergarten journey.
27. “Circle of Life” by Elton John
“Circle of Life” is a song written by Elton John and Tim Rice for the Disney animated film “The Lion King,” released in 1994.
The song is performed in the film’s opening sequence and serves as a celebration of the birth of Simba, the film’s main character, and the natural cycle of life in the animal kingdom.
“Circle of Life” can also serve as a reminder of the exciting journey ahead for these young graduates as they embark on their academic and personal journeys.
Its lyrics speak of the continuity of life and the importance of cherishing every moment, which is a message that resonates with people of all ages.
See also: Best Elton John Songs
28. “Over the Rainbow” by Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole
“Over the Rainbow” is a timeless classic written initially for the 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz.”
However, the version by Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole has become a beloved rendition of the song, and it has gained popularity as a graduation song due to its uplifting and optimistic message.
The Hawaiian musician’s rendition of the song brings a sense of peace and tranquility, and it’s an excellent choice for graduation ceremonies, as it reminds graduates that even though life can be challenging, there is always a ray of hope.
The lyrics are about pursuing happiness, encouraging listeners to look beyond their current circumstances and reach for their dreams.
29. “A Whole New World” by Lea Salonga and Brad Kane
“A Whole New World” is a song from the 1992 Disney animated film Aladdin, with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Tim Rice.
The lyrics describe the wonder and excitement of exploring new horizons and experiencing love in a whole new way.
The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1993 and the Grammy Award for Song of the Year.
30. “I Will Remember You” by Amy Gran
“I Will Remember You” is a touching and sentimental song often used as a graduation song for kindergarten, high school, or college students.
The song is a heartfelt tribute to memories and goodbyes and expresses that even though people may be apart, their shared memories will never be forgotten.
It is a popular choice for graduation ceremonies because it captures the bittersweet emotions of saying goodbye to old friends and moving on to new adventures.
31. “May There Always Be Sunshine” by Dr. Jean
“May There Always Be Sunshine” by Dr. Jean has a catchy melody and easy-to-learn lyrics perfect for young children.
The song’s message of hope and positivity is also very appropriate for a graduation ceremony, as it encourages children to always look on the bright side of life and believe in themselves and their dreams.
The lyrics also emphasize the importance of kindness, friendship, and community, all important values for young children to learn.
32. “Make it Happen” by Mariah Carey
“Make it Happen” is an uplifting and motivational track that encourages people to pursue their dreams and aspirations, no matter how difficult the road may be.
The lyrics describe Mariah’s struggles and how she overcame them to achieve her goals.
The song features a gospel choir and a lively dance beat, which gives it a joyful and celebratory feel.
“Make It Happen” became a hit for Mariah, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Wrapping Up Our List of the Best Kindergarten Graduation Songs
Our list of the 32 Best Kindergarten Graduation Songs provides a great selection of fun, educational, and inspiring tunes for young children to celebrate their achievements as they move on to the next stage of their education.
These songs provide entertainment and instill important values such as perseverance, friendship, and self-confidence which are essential for a successful and fulfilling life.
Whether you are a teacher, parent, or student, these songs will make any graduation ceremony a memorable occasion.
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