The Ultimate Summer Songs Playlist for Kids & Families: Fun & Learning in English & Chinese!

In this blog, Wukong explore the best summer songs in English and Chinese that will keep children entertained while helping them improve their language skills. We’ve divided the songs into two categories: English summer hits and Chinese summer favorites, with tips on how to use them for learning.

1. Introduction to Summer Songs

Summer is a season of fun, relaxation, and adventure, and what better way to enhance the experience than with the perfect soundtrack? Whether you’re planning a picnic in the park, a family barbecue, or a spontaneous dance party in your living room, a thoughtfully curated summer playlist can set the mood for any occasion. The right mix of songs can turn an ordinary day into a memorable celebration, making every moment feel special.

From classic anthems to the latest hits by artists like Harry Styles, a summer playlist brings everyone together and keeps the energy high. It’s not just about background music—it’s about creating a vibe that matches the season’s excitement. So, join us as we explore how to build the perfect playlist for your family, ensuring every summer adventure is paired with the perfect song. No matter where you are or what you’re doing, the right music can make your summer truly unforgettable. Even on a cold or cloudy day, summer songs can bring warmth and energy, helping you capture the summer spirit regardless of the weather.

2. English Summer Songs for Kids

English songs are a fantastic way for children to improve vocabulary, pronunciation, and rhythm. Here are some timeless summer-themed songs that kids (and parents!) will love.

2.1. Classic Summer Hits

Classic summer hits are the perfect soundtrack for any summer occasion, whether you’re firing up the grill at a family barbecue or relaxing in the park with friends. These timeless songs, like “Summer Breeze” by Seals and Crofts and “School’s Out” by Alice Cooper, instantly bring a sense of fun and freedom that defines the season. Their catchy choruses and memorable melodies make them a common favorite on every summer playlist, ensuring that both kids and adults can sing along and enjoy the moment together.

No matter the occasion, classic summer hits are a great way to set the mood and create lasting memories. You can easily download these songs and add them to your playlist, making it simple to enjoy the best tunes of the season wherever you go. In this case, having a collection of classic summer songs means you’ll always have the perfect soundtrack ready—whether you’re on a road trip, at the park, or just enjoying a sunny afternoon at home. So, listen to these beloved songs and let them bring extra fun to your summer adventures!

🎵 “Under the Boardwalk” – The Drifters

A nostalgic beach song that paints a picture of summer by the shore. Kids can learn words like “boardwalk,” “sun,” “sand,” and “ocean.”

Their catchy choruses and memorable melodies make them a common favorite on every summer playlist, ensuring that both kids and adults can sing along and enjoy the moment together. The chorus is often the most memorable part of a summer song, making it irresistible and encouraging everyone to join in.

In one case, a group of children created their own illustrated storybooks using new vocabulary from “Under the Boardwalk,” making the learning experience both memorable and fun.

🎵 “Surfin’ U.S.A.” – The Beach Boys

A fun, upbeat song about surfing and summer adventures. Great for learning action words like “surfing,” “dancing,” and “riding.”

2.2. Modern Summer Songs for Kids

Modern summer songs for kids are a fantastic way to keep the energy high and the fun going all season long. With artists like Harry Styles and Katy Perry leading the way, today’s summer hits are packed with upbeat rhythms and playful lyrics that kids love to sing and dance to. These songs are perfect for creating a lively atmosphere at any summer gathering, whether you’re at the park, the beach, or just hanging out at home.

You can join in the excitement by listening to these songs with your kids and building your own summer playlist filled with the latest hits. Modern summer songs are designed to get everyone moving and smiling, making them the perfect addition to any family activity. Finally, don’t forget to check out new releases and add them to your playlist—keeping your summer soundtrack fresh and fun for every occasion. With these songs, you’ll create memories that last long after the season ends!

🎵 “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” – Justin Timberlake

A super catchy song from Trolls that makes everyone dance! Perfect for learning positive phrases like “happy,” “dancing,” and “good vibes.”

🎵 “Sunflower” – Post Malone & Swae Lee

A relaxed, feel-good song (from Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse) with simple lyrics. Kids can pick up words like “sunflower,” “need,” and “love.”

2.3. Educational Summer Songs

Educational summer songs are a wonderful way to keep kids learning while having fun during the summer months. These songs cover a variety of topics, from science and history to language and the changing seasons, all set to catchy tunes that make learning feel like play. Adding educational songs to your summer playlist is the perfect way to blend fun and learning, ensuring that kids stay engaged even when school is out.

You can easily download these songs and listen to them during car rides, at home, or while enjoying outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for songs that teach about the weather, summer activities, or important concepts, there’s a perfect educational song for every child. In the end, these songs help make the summer season both enjoyable and enriching, giving kids a head start for the next school year while keeping the fun going strong.

🎵 “The Summer Song” – KidsTV123

A simple, repetitive song that teaches summer vocabulary (“sun,” “ice cream,” “beach”).

🎵 “Summer Days” – Super Simple Songs

A playful song about summer activities (*”swimming,” “picnics,” “barbecues”*).

3. Chinese Summer Songs for Kids

Learning Chinese through music is an exciting way for kids to pick up new words and tones. Here are some fun and easy Chinese summer songs for children.

3.1. Traditional & Classic Chinese Summer Songs

Traditional and classic Chinese summer songs offer a unique way to experience the rich music and culture of China during the vibrant summer season. These songs often feature beautiful melodies and traditional instruments, making them a wonderful addition to any summer playlist. Whether played during festivals, family gatherings, or simply as background music on a warm day, these songs capture the spirit of summer in a distinctly Chinese way.

You can listen to many of these songs for free on popular music streaming platforms, and it’s easy to download your favorites to create a personalized playlist. In this case, exploring traditional Chinese summer songs is a great way to introduce kids to new sounds and cultural traditions, adding diversity and excitement to your summer soundtrack. So, take a moment to listen and discover how these classic tunes can make your summer even more special!

🎵 “夏天夏天悄悄过去” (“Summer Summer Quietly Passes”)

A sweet, nostalgic song about summer memories. Kids can learn seasonal words like “夏天” (summer), “阳光” (sunshine), and “回忆” (memories).

🎵 “小苹果” (“Little Apple”) – Chopstick Brothers

A super catchy, high-energy song (great for dancing!). Kids can learn simple words like “苹果” (apple), “爱” (love), and “快乐” (happy).

3.2. Modern Chinese Kids’ Songs

🎵 “阳光彩虹小白马” (“Sunshine Rainbow Little White Horse”) – 大张伟

A cheerful, colorful song with repetitive lyrics. Great for learning colors (*”彩虹” – rainbow*) and happy phrases.

🎵 “学猫叫” (“Learn to Meow”) – 小潘潘 & 小峰峰

A playful, viral song about mimicking a cat. Kids can learn animal sounds and simple phrases like “喵喵” (meow).

3.3. Educational Chinese Summer Songs

🎵 “夏天到” (“Summer Is Here”) – 贝瓦儿歌

A simple, repetitive song introducing summer concepts (*”热” – hot, “游泳” – swim*).

🎵 “冰淇淋” (“Ice Cream”) – 儿歌

A cute song about ice cream flavors, teaching words like “甜” (sweet), “巧克力” (chocolate), and “草莓” (strawberry).

4. Family-Friendly Activities with Summer Songs

Summer songs aren’t just for listening—they’re the perfect spark for family fun! Turn your favorite tunes into interactive activities that get everyone moving, laughing, and learning together. Here are some creative ways to make the most of your summer playlist:

• Musical Picnics in the Park: Pack a picnic and bring a portable speaker. Let each family member pick a song to play while you enjoy your meal. Try a “guess the song” game or have a mini dance-off on the grass.
• DIY Music Videos: Choose a favorite summer song and create your own family music video. Dress up, choreograph simple moves, and record your performance. It’s a great way to bond and make memories you’ll love to watch at the end of the season.
• Freeze Dance: Play a summer hit and pause it at random—everyone has to freeze in place! This classic game is always a hit with kids and adds a burst of laughter to any occasion.
• Song Scavenger Hunt: Make a list of common summer words (like “sun,” “ice cream,” or “beach”) and see who can spot them first in the lyrics of your playlist.
• Sing-Along Storytime: After listening to a song, create a story together inspired by the lyrics. Let each family member add a sentence, building a silly or adventurous tale.

With these activities, your summer playlist becomes more than just background music—it’s the soundtrack to your family’s best moments!

5. How to Use Summer Songs for Language Learning

Music makes language learning fun and effective! Try these engaging activities: For interactive practice, host a karaoke challenge with on-screen lyrics or reward kids for memorizing songs. Turn learning into a game with a word hunt—have children find 5 song-related words in books or around the house. Creative projects like painting a sunflower while listening to “Sunflower” and labeling parts in English/Chinese combine art with vocabulary.

To boost physical and verbal skills, pair keywords with dance moves (jump when you hear “jump”) or invent stories inspired by songs, like imagining a beach adventure after “Under the Boardwalk.” These methods keep kids moving, thinking, and learning—without feeling like a lesson!

Summary

Summer is the perfect time to combine fun and learning with music! This blog introduces the best summer songs in English and Chinese for kids and families. From classic beach tunes like “Surfin’ U.S.A.” to catchy Chinese hits like “小苹果 (Little Apple),” these songs keep children entertained while boosting language skills. We’ve included learning tips for each song, such as word hunts, dance activities, and crafts, making language practice engaging. Whether you’re singing along in English or Mandarin, these melodies will make your summer brighter—and smarter!

FAQ

1. Why use songs for language learning?

Music helps with memory, pronunciation, and vocabulary in a fun, natural way. Kids absorb words and phrases effortlessly through rhythm and repetition.

2. Are these songs suitable for non-native speakers?

Yes! We’ve selected simple, repetitive, and upbeat songs ideal for beginners. Many include gestures or visuals to reinforce meaning.

3. How can I make song-based learning interactive?

– Karaoke sessions (sing along with lyrics).

– Dance moves (act out keywords).

– Crafts (draw scenes from the songs).

4. Can toddlers enjoy these songs too?

Absolutely! Songs like “The Summer Song” (KidsTV123) and “冰淇淋 (Ice Cream)” have easy lyrics and catchy tunes perfect for little ones.

5. Where can I find these songs?

Most are on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Music. Search for the title + “for kids” or “儿歌” (Chinese children’s songs).