10 Simple Hymns to Teach our Children
I often hear hesitation from parents about their children learning hymns. They think it is easier to learn more contemporary music or only children’s songs. One of these reasons is that the lyrics are not repetitive. Adults and older children, who can read, can handle the complexity of lyrics in hymns, but this becomes difficult for children who are not yet able to read. Although hymns can initially be difficult for younger kids, they should still be exposed and taught to sing hymns. Reformation Bible College has a great post on the value of singing hymns. After 10 years of family worship and corporate worship, with children of various ages, I have found a few hymns that are better for our non-readers to learn. These hymns have repetitive words, typically through a chorus and they also tend to be more upbeat for young children to dance to as they sing along. Check out some of our favorite hymns to teach children.
1. Nothing but the Blood
This was one of the first songs we taught our oldest to sing when she was younger. I love the repetitive phrase nothing but the blood. Not only is this phrase repeated throughout the song, but there is also a repetitive chorus. This allows children of all ages to participate in the song when they hear the start of the phrase. The theology of this song is also very important to impart to our children. Teaching them that they are saved through the blood of Christ is paramount. Christ's blood is the only thing that can cleanse us of our sins.
2. Tell me the Story of Jesus
One of my favorite hymns for everyone to know. This hymn was sung as a part of our kid’s Christmas program at church and can be learned by all ages. Even though this one is not as repetitive as others, it still has a chorus. I love that this hymn tells the story of Jesus in a way that is fun and easy for kids to understand. There is no greater sound than hearing kids sing the story of Christ.
3. Standing on the Promises
Another hymn full of rich theology focuses on who we are leaning on. The chorus In this song makes it easier and fun for kids to learn.
4. Are you Washed in the Blood of the Lamb
Much to my surprise, Alan Jackson’s version of this hymn quickly became our children's favorite hymn to sing. Every Sunday when we get in the van, the kids rush to be the first to choose a hymn. Nine times out of Ten this is the hymn they chose. If you're not a fan of Southern Gospel music, there are many other versions online.
5. Onward Christian Soldiers
If you have any boys in your house this is the hymn for them. In our home, our son loves to play anything that has to do with soldiers. He loves to protect his kingdom and defend the enemies, whether that be dragons or evil monsters. I love how this hymn teaches from a young age that we are soldiers of Christ. We are not to be passive in our Christianity but are to be active and are followers of Christ as our supreme leader.
6. All things Bright and Beautiful
This is a hymn that I had forgotten about until our kids started learning it for Co-Op. I forgot how fun this hymn can be when you add hand motions for young children. It is a bit more difficult to learn all the words since it's not very repetitive. My 4-year-old loves singing this with the hand motions.
7. There is Power
Another rich theology song about the power in Christ's blood. This is a fun dancing song as it is more upbeat than some of the others. It also has a chorus that is easy for kids to pick up and join.
8. Up from the Grave He Arose
This song is also called the jumping song in our home. Years ago when our oldest kids were 6 and 3, they started jumping to the chorus. I have no idea why but once it was started it never stopped. It's 4 years later and they still hold hands and jump up and down during the chorus.
9. When the Roll is Called Up Yonder
Another Southern Gospel-style hymn has made our list. This is a new one for our family but is fun to dance to.
10. Doxology
A classic hymn that many of us sing weekly in our churches and homes. The Doxology is a hymn that every child should know and can learn at a young age. Although not repetitive, it is pretty easy to learn. Our children have learned it by the time they were 3 years old. Rich in theology and community this is a must-know for all Christians.
