Jingle bells are synonymous with the holiday season, and for good reason! The bright, cheerful sound instantly brings a festive atmosphere, making them a perfect addition to music education, especially in December. As a music educator, I’ve always loved incorporating jingle bells into my classroom activities. The sheer excitement on my students’ faces when those bells come out is priceless! And let’s be honest, these joyful songs are fantastic for young children performing in winter concerts. Let’s explore my top 5 Jingle Bell Songs that are guaranteed hits with kids!
Choosing the Right Jingle Bells for Your Classroom
Before we dive into songs, let’s talk jingle bells. For classroom use, especially with younger students, safety and practicality are key. That’s why I highly recommend wrist band jingle bells. Attaching the bells to wrists significantly reduces the chances of them becoming airborne projectiles across the stage or classroom – a lesson learned from experience!
Another fun and budget-friendly option is to have your students create their own jingle bell wristbands. All you need are pipe cleaners and loose jingle bells. This can be a great pre-music activity that combines crafting with music preparation!
Top 5 Engaging Jingle Bell Songs for Children
Now, let’s get to the music! Here are five jingle bell songs that are sure to be a hit with your students and perfect for incorporating into your music lessons or winter performances.
1. “Christmas Time”: An Energetic Jingle Bell Anthem
“Christmas Time” is the perfect high-energy jingle bell song to combat pre-winter break wiggles. This song is fantastic for getting kids moving and releasing energy in a fun, musical way. The upbeat tempo and simple actions make it easy for children to learn and enjoy, making it ideal for those exciting days leading up to the holidays.
2. “Jingle Jingle Little Bell”: A Calming and Educational Tune
For a more mellow jingle bell experience, “Jingle Jingle Little Bell” is a wonderful choice, especially towards the end of a class. Set to the familiar tune of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” this song is instantly accessible for young learners. Beyond its calming melody, it’s also a great tool for teaching opposites like high and low through simple, adorable movements, adding an educational dimension to the festive fun.
3. “Sleigh Ride”: Imagine a Magical Jingle Bell Journey
“Sleigh Ride” is a timeless Christmas classic and a personal favorite sing-along. Handing out jingle bells and having students imagine they are on a sleigh ride is pure holiday magic. This song encourages imaginative play and musical expression, allowing children to physically embody the spirit of the song with their jingle bells.
4. “Jingle Bell Rock”: Steady Beat Practice with a Rocking Twist
“Jingle Bell Rock” brings a moderato tempo that’s perfect for steady beat practice. I often use this song for a passing game: students in a circle pass one jingle bell to the beat. This activity not only reinforces rhythm and timing but also promotes teamwork and focused listening in a fun, engaging context.
5. “Everybody Sing (Jingle Jangle)”: A Fresh and Inclusive Jingle Bell Song
Looking for a fresh alternative to the traditional “Jingle Bells”? “Everybody Sing,” also known as “Jingle Jangle,” created by fellow music educator Charissa Duncanson, is a fantastic option. It’s a modern and inclusive song that captures the jingle bell spirit while offering a welcome update to the classic repertoire, especially considering the questionable history of “Jingle Bells.”
Spread Holiday Cheer with Jingle Bell Songs
I hope these jingle bell song suggestions bring joy and musical merriment to your classroom this holiday season! Incorporating jingle bells into your lessons is a surefire way to boost engagement and create lasting festive memories for your students.
For more holiday music inspiration and lesson ideas, be sure to check out these related blog posts: “Top 5 Music Activities for the Nutcracker”, “Winter Celebrations Alphabet Program”, “Nutcracker Story & Music Questions”, “Ukulele Christmas Carols for Beginners”. You can also explore my TPT store for additional resources. And if you’re interested in more Beginner Ukulele Christmas Carols, this blog post is a great resource. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season filled with music!
Keepin’ it Simple,
Paige
Please follow and like us:
Share this…[
