Easy Piano Songs Kids Can Practice (Guide & FAQs for Parents)

Starting your child on piano can be exciting and daunting. As a piano teacher in LA with two decades of experience, I’ve seen many youngsters light up when they finally play a recognizable tune. 

Parents often ask, “What songs should my kid learn first?” and “How can I keep them motivated?” This guide is for you. We’ll cover age-appropriate tunes, practice tips, and how to work with teachers.

What songs should my child start with?

Choose short, familiar tunes that match your child’s world. Classic nursery rhymes are golden because kids already know the words and melody:

• The Itsy Bitsy Spider and Old MacDonald are simple, repetitive, and allow hand motions or animal noises for fun.
  
  
• Twinkle Twinkle Little Star is one of the very easiest, with most notes on one finger (C–C–G–G pattern). Most young teachers will start here; it helps kids learn key positions gradually.
  
  
• Mary Had a Little Lamb is often taught right after. Its pattern moves stepwise, which “many tutors teach… as the notes are easy to learn”.
  
  
• Happy Birthday is a must-know – kids love playing it at family celebrations. It’s only four chords, and a kid playing it on piano is guaranteed applause.
  
  
• If You're Happy and You Know It adds a bit of movement (clapping parts) to keep things engaging once basic keys are down.
  
  
• Seasonal tunes like Jingle Bells or “Hot Cross Buns” (for Easter time) also keep practice festive.

When introducing any song, start with just one hand or one phrase. Use games: for example, repeat micro sections using stickers for a reward for every perfect repetition, or use a timer to motivate speed plus accuracy and keep it exciting. 

Musical apps and YouTube tutorials can reinforce these songs at home, but always pair tech with real keys and fingers.

Kid-Friendly Piano Apps

Now, the most commonly asked questions about piano song recommendations for kids- answered. 

Confused about how to choose a piano or keyboard? Read our article for the best recommendations. 

FAQs

How long before my child can actually PLAY a recognizable song?

We’ve observed that most kids can play a simple, recognizable song within 3–4 weeks, and can play fuller beginner pieces by 2–3 months with regular practice. Initially, rhythm and tempo are the main challenges. 

They may learn the melodies, but putting them together in the right tempo is the real challenge for kids. What’s more important is practice. Consistency matters more than talent. You’ll see noticeable changes and improvements in their playing after the first month. 

Why is my child stuck on the same few beginner songs? Are they progressing?

Repetition is necessary for hand control, rhythm, and confidence.

BUT:
If your child is on only 2–3 beginner piano songs for 8+ weeks and practices regularly, ask the teacher about a progress plan.

However, if they can play even 1 song properly, that’s also a strong process for a new learner. 

My child only wants to learn pop/modern songs. Is that okay?

Absolutely. Classical songs require a stronger technique, reading skills. Pop focus means faster wins, higher motivation. The best approach is to let them play what they enjoy and connect with. 

If you’re in West LA, Beverly Hills, or the San Fernando Valley, and want your child to learn Let It Be, Hallelujah, or your favourite Disney song the right way… Come take a piano lesson at Angeles Academy. 

We’ll get you playing it in your very first class. We’re conveniently located in Brentwood, Westwood, and Tarzana, so you can come for classes from anywhere in Los Angeles.

What songs make kids WANT to practice?

Honestly, any songs they love. 

But simple piano songs that kids are usually attracted to are:

• Disney: Let It Go, A Whole New World
• Movies: Hedwig’s Theme, Pirates of the Caribbean, Interstellar
• Pop: Coldplay’s Clocks, Adele’s Hello, Thinking Out Loud
• Classics: Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Country Roads

These are recognizable and emotionally rewarding, which is essential for young beginners.

Can my child learn “Für Elise” right away?

Not the real version. Für Elise is an intermediate/advanced classical piece. Beginners need 6–12 months of foundation before attempting it.

But kids can learn simple versions of famous piano songs, such as:

• Opening of Clair de Lune (simplified)
• First bars of Moonlight Sonata
• Easy arrangement of Canon in D
• Beginner versions of Let It Be, Imagine, or Someone Like You

These offer the “wow factor” without skipping fundamentals.

What about pop songs like Taylor Swift or Justin Bieber? Are 4-chord songs okay?

A: YES! Many easy piano songs for beginners use simple 4-chord progressions (I–V–vi–IV).

Perfect beginner songs include:

• Blank Space
• Let It Be
• Someone Like You
• Someone You Loved

These build chord transitions, rhythm, confidence, and motivation. Smart teachers mix classical foundation + modern pop for balance.

How long should my child stay on each piece?

• Casual learners: 2–3 weeks
• Regular learners (3–4 practice days): 3–4 weeks
• Serious students: 2–3 weeks

Consider them ready to move on when they can:

• Play at full tempo
• Make <3 mistakes per run
• Play with expression, not stiffness

Should we learn full songs or break them into sections?

Always break into 4–8 bar chunks.
Right hand → left hand → hands together.
This cuts frustration and speeds up learning dramatically.

My child quits after 2 days of a new song. What now?

Totally normal — it’s the “learning dip.”

Try:

• Tiny sections only
• 1–2 familiar songs first
• Sticker chart
• “Try again tomorrow” rule

Kids often “click” around Day 4 or 5.

My child watches YouTube tutorials. Should I let them learn those songs?

Yes, but with structure.

Use YouTube for motivation, but use lessons for:

• Proper fingering
• Rhythm
• Technique
• Reading music

A blend of both is ideal.

How much should I pay for my kids' piano lessons in Los Angeles?

In Los Angeles, expect to pay $45–$80 for a 30-minute kids’ piano lesson in areas like Westwood or Beverly Hills, and $80–$150 with more experienced teachers or premium schools. For a more detailed breakdown on how much piano classes cost in LA, read this article here. 

What songs work best for beginner recitals?

Crowd-pleasers:

• Disney songs
• Movie themes (Interstellar, Hedwig’s Theme)
• Ode to Joy
• Country Roads
• Somewhere Over the Rainbow
• You Are My Sunshine

Avoid:

• Overly long pieces
• Songs your child finds boring
• Anything they can’t play confidently

When does my child “graduate” from beginner piano songs?

Usually, after 6–8 months of steady practice. Signs they’re ready for intermediate pieces:

• Reads treble & bass clef
• Plays easy songs at full tempo
• Uses both hands confidently
• Understands rhythms and dynamics

My child practices the same 2–3 songs forever. Is it okay?

First 1–3 months: Normal
After 3–6 months: Should expand repertoire
If they love repetition but ARE improving (faster, cleaner, better dynamics), it’s fine. Just add new songs gradually.

Should we celebrate completing songs?

YES!!! That’s a huge motivation booster.
Celebrate:

• First melody
• First hands-together
• First full tempo
• First performance
• Recording a video

Small rewards = big motivation..

What are great piano songs that sound impressive but are still easy?

Ode to Joy, Hallelujah, River Flows in You (simplified), and Gymnopédie No.1 sound impressive but aren’t that hard to play. You can read more about beginner-friendly piano pieces that sound impressive here. 

Parents in Brentwood, Century City, Encino, and Tarzana often bring their kids to us for their first-ever lesson. If you’re nearby, we’d be happy to help your child start with these easy beginner piano songs and love the piano from day one.

Sign up and book your first session at Angeles Academy of Music for the best piano lessons for kids near you, in Los Angeles. 

Contributed by: Nathan P. BM, Indiana University