Dr. Emily AronoffYom Kippur is a time of introspection and transformation, and teaching these concepts to little ones can be a complex and delicate undertaking. Help them embark on their spiritual journey with music that transcends age, capturing and echoing the essence of Yom Kippur’s teachings. This carefully curated collection of songs is designed to resonate with and invite multi modal engagement from participants of every age and stage.
While the gravity of “repentance” might be overwhelming for young souls, focusing on simpler, relatable concepts like self-awareness, empathy, and harmony allows us to connect with Yom Kippur’s essence.
A Musical Guide for Every Listener
From reimagined traditional hymns and captivating fingerplays for the tiniest of listeners to engaging story-songs about Jonah, there’s a musical experience here for every young listener. Whether you’re an educator at a synagogue, a parent looking to instill valuable lessons, or simply someone aiming to make this Yom Kippur special for the children in your life, these songs are sure to leave a lasting imprint.
Listen to all these songs with my Yom Kippur-ish Songs for Early Childhood Spotify playlist
1. Jonah and The Whale
by Jeff Klepper and Jeff Salkin
Let this simple and instantly singable chorus whisk our young listeners away on a journey with Jonah. Amplify their engagement by using visual props and explore our related post on sharing this song with puppets ! I’ve got a whole post about sharing that song:
by Avinu Malkeinu
This song is TTTO (to the tune of) the traditional Avinu Malkeinu. The vast majority of adult recognize this melody within a few notes, which captivates their attention: our brains like things that are both familiar and novel at the same time. I don’t know the original source of the translation, I’ve heard it done a few ways, but I’ve adapted it to align with what I know to be true about apologies and young children. This adapted translation of the traditional Avinu Malkeinu brings the concept of apologies closer to young hearts. Sing in English, Hebrew and then English again, captivating their attention with familiarity and melody.
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3. Building A Better World
I love this song and use it regularly- it makes a great PreK graduation tune! This uplifting message is a call to action that is sweet, simple, and soulful. Adding the hand movements enhances interactivity.
by The Byrds
The Byrds quoted the Book of Ecclesiastes (Kohelet), which is typically read during Yom Kippur, in this pop song’s lyrics.
In music classes, I distribute scarves or ribbons to the children to help them practice their gross motor coordination by making big movements turning throughout the space. I’ll share this sweet video and we’ll literally turn, turn, turn as the music plays.
To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven…
5. I’m Not Perfect
An incredibly talented songwriter and inspiration, Laurie Berkner explains human nature quite brilliantly in this simple diddy. Encourage self-acceptance and effort in our young ones with this endearing song. A Yom Kippur message that reminds children – and all of us – that we are not perfect, but we’re always striving to do our best.
6. Tap Your Heart (Ashamnu)
by Eliana Light
This is a BRILLIANT tune from the very talented Eliana Light. It offers a simple and relatable prayer inspired by the sacred words of Ashamnu, and integrates the soul gripping “Aiy yay yay yays” that come from our tradition. Please enjoy learning it with her and then see how my toddler takes ownership:
by Daniel Tiger
When something seems bad,
turn it around,
and find something good!
8. Saying I'm Sorry
by Daniel Tiger
“Saying I’m sorry is the first step…then how can I help?”
This song’s simplicity is magnificent. In my house, we talk about a making a plan to do things diffently as a part of the repair process, and I love how this tune invites that kind of thinking in our littlest loved ones.
9. Whoopsies
by Gabby’s Playhouse
I discovered this song as I was cleaning my kitchen- I heard it while my daughter was watching TV- and was delighted to discover that one of her fav characters, Gabby of Gabby’s Dollhouse, has a great song about recognizing a misstep and realizing it is part of growth.
10. Because I’m Practicing
by Mother Moon
This one is new to my list, and I can’t stop humming it. The simple and frequently repeated line “that’s why I’m practicing” sticks with me in the gentlest way. It feels like a little inner voice, reminding me (and the children, and honestly all of us) that practice is how we grow.
Yom Kippur is such a powerful time for reflecting on who we are and who we want to become. A song like this helps us give language to that process without heaviness. It turns “I made a mistake” into “I’m practicing being the person I want to be.” That’s a message worth repeating, quietly, until it gets lodged in the heart.
Support for Educators, All Year Long
Music is one of the most powerful ways to help children experience Jewish values with joy and depth. If you’d like ongoing support, resources, and a community of educators who love sharing Jewish music, I’d love to invite you into the Songleading for Kiddos Support Squad. That’s where I share ready-to-use curriculum, coaching, and new ideas each month
Conclusion: Immerse, Reflect, and Connect
Dive into these melodies and let the rhythms, harmonies, and lyrics create an enriching atmosphere of reflection and connection. Don’t forget, for a seamless musical journey, tune into the ‘Yom Kippur-ish Songs for Kiddos‘ playlist on Spotify. Happy listening, and may this Yom Kippur be filled with understanding, growth, and memorable melodies for you and your loved ones.
