What Music Should You Play During Your Child’s Party?

The right playlist makes all the difference.

Music is the heartbeat of a children’s party. It sets the atmosphere, gets kids moving, and helps every part of the celebration flow smoothly. But if you’re hosting your own party, you might be wondering: what songs actually work best for children?

Do you go for chart-toppers, kids’ classics, or something in between? Here’s a simple guide to picking the perfect party playlist.

1. High-Energy Pop for Dancing and Games

When it is time to play party games or get the children dancing, you will want upbeat, recognisable songs that kids can sing along to.

Think:

• Popular chart hits (clean versions) from artists like Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake, or Bruno Mars

• Fun family-friendly anthems like “Happy” by Pharrell Williams or “Can’t Stop the Feeling” from Trolls

• TikTok-friendly tracks (with clean edits) for older children

These tracks keep the energy buzzing and make the dance floor feel exciting.

2. Light Background Music for Food Breaks

When the kids sit down to eat, you do not want the music blasting, but silence can feel a bit flat. This is where gentler background tracks work perfectly. Good options include:

• Disney soundtracks (Frozen, Encanto, Moana always win)

• Movie instrumentals or gentle pop hits

• Easy-listening kids’ playlists available on Spotify or YouTube

Calm music during food helps keep the atmosphere relaxed so kids actually eat instead of bouncing out of their chairs.

3. Classic Party Songs That Never Fail

Some songs have stood the test of time at children’s parties. They are fun, silly, and instantly get kids involved:

• “Cha Cha Slide”

• “Macarena”

• “Baby Shark” (love it or hate it, the kids adore it)

• “YMCA”

• “The Hokey Cokey”

These are brilliant for structured party games and for getting even the shy kids involved.

4. Nursery Rhymes and TV Favourites for Younger Kids

For toddlers and preschoolers, nothing beats the songs they already know from TV and nursery. Great options include:

• CBeebies theme tunes

• Nursery classics like “Wheels on the Bus” or “If You’re Happy and You Know It”

• Simple action songs where kids can join in

These make little ones feel comfortable and encourage participation.

5. End the Party on a High

The last 10 minutes of a party are just as important as the start. Finishing with big, upbeat songs ensures every child leaves smiling. Think:

• Current pop anthems (clean edits)

• Disney finale songs (“We Don’t Talk About Bruno” always hits)

• A group favourite chosen by the birthday child

This creates a sense of closure and makes the goodbye moment joyful.

Tips for Parents Making the Playlist

• Keep it clean: Use child-friendly edits for any chart music

• Mix it up: Include a variety of familiar songs, not just one genre

• Have backups: Kids sometimes ask for repeats or have specific favourites

• Do not overthink it: Kids do not care about playlists being “perfect” — they just want fun, upbeat music they know

Or Let Us Handle It For You

At Non Stop Kids Entertainment, you do not need to worry about playlists. Our entertainers bring child-friendly, party-perfect music to every booking. We know when to play high-energy tracks, when to switch to calm background tunes, and how to end with a finale that leaves every child smiling.