18 Songs Teachers Recommend for a Happier, More Focused School Commute

Music has the power to uplift anyone’s mood, especially kids. If your children are feeling tired, rundown, or stressed, listening to upbeat, energetic songs can increase optimism, motivation, and happiness. Studies have shown that the right tunes can help kids mentally prepare for the day, improve focus, and foster a productive mindset. This is particularly valuable if your child has a busy or challenging school day ahead.

For the commute home, music can also play a key role in helping children unwind and transition back to home life. Calming melodies, in particular, can reduce stress, help prevent burnout, and promote a sense of peace.

“Each season and moment in life requires a different type of music for us all,” says Elizabeth Fraley, MEd, a pre-K through sixth-grade teacher in Los Angeles, California. “Music continues and always will be a powerful way to reflect on our own day-to-day experiences and the impact they have on others.”

Ultimately, the perfect playlist for your school commute will depend on you and your child’s personal preferences. If you’re unsure where to start, we asked teachers across the country to share their recommendations—here are their top 18 picks.

“What a Wonderful World,” “Teach Your Children,” and “Send Me on My Way”

“What a Wonderful World,” by Louis Armstrong features the iconic lyrics: “I watch them grow; they’ll learn much more than I’ll ever know; and I think to myself, what a wonderful world.” Fraley explains that the song resonates deeply with her as an educator. “The lyrics and impression I get from the song tell me when I teach children they’re walking away with more knowledge and skills that will make our world a better place,” she says.

Fraley also recommends, “Teach Your Children” by Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young. The song encourages us to teach kids kindness and to help them understand the values that guide our lives, she says. “The lyrics also explain that over the years our children will reflect on what we’ve taught them.”

The song’s message about teaching parents is just as meaningful, she adds. “This means not only are we teaching children, but the children are teaching us even as parents or a teacher. We listen to what children say and follow their lead.”

Another favorite is “Send Me on My Way” by Rusted Root, which Fraley describes as a celebration of the joys of learning. Fraley believes the song can help empower young children as they head to school or reflect on their day during the ride home.

She notes the lyrics “we will run” and “we will crawl,” beautifully symbolize the educational journey. “Through the educational process we ‘run’ and we ‘crawl’ when learning is easy or when learning topics are emerging. [The line] ‘send me on my way’ resonates with me because each day, we send children on their way when the day comes to a close.”

“When We Were Young” and “Easy on Me”

According to Monica S. Franzone, EdD, an educator working with toddlers, preschoolers, and college students in New London, Connecticut, Adele is a soulful singer who captures human emotion with incredible conviction. While Franzone enjoys nearly all of Adele’s music, her top picks for school commutes for older kids are “When We Were Young,” and “Easy on Me.”

“Even though ‘When We Were Young’ is not about children, it reminds me of how life can be like a movie,” says Franzone. “[Meanwhile], ‘Easy on Me’ at the end of a long day reminds me that we are all doing our best with what we have. We need to share our compassion, time, and understanding with all we serve.”

“Stargazing”

Kellie Kopach, EdD, a seventh-grade English and language arts teacher in Lake Forest, Illinois, recommends “Stargazing” by Myles Smith as a perfect sing-along tune for families. While the song puts her in a great mood before work, she suggests it as a fun way for families to decompress after a long school day. “There is something about both singing and laughing that are cathartic for me,” Kopach says.

‘Greatest Showman Soundtrack’

Emily Lowe, MA, Ed, a teacher specializing second through fifth-grade students with dyslexia and ADHD in Redwood City, California, recommends The Greatest Showman soundtrack as an inspirational and introspective choice for school commutes.

“I love ‘This is Me’ for reminding myself that my students are trying their best and showing their authenticity each day,” she says. “’Never Enough’ is great for a cry when it’s needed after a frustrating day; and ‘From Now On’ is perfect for mornings when I need motivation to make big changes. 

“Big Love Ahead”

For Haley DeSousa, MEd, a teacher of children from birth through 5 years of age in Middletown, Rhode Island, “Big Love Ahead” by Mon Rovîa offers a sense of lightness and reassurance. “The song dictates the importance of resilience and the presence of love and support that surrounds us all,” she says.

DeSousa explains that Mon Rovîa’s lyrics feel like a comforting embrace through the speakers, providing both parents and kids with affirmations to carry throughout the day. “When I start my day listening to this song, I begin in a positive headspace. When I get lost in the craziness of the day I find myself repeating [the lyrics], ‘You’ve got so much on your shoulders, stay strong.’ which is just what I need to keep moving forward.”

Tips for Selecting Songs for Your School Commute

Listening to music on your school commute can serve many purposes. According to Hezekiah Herrera EdD, a special education teacher for grades four through six in San Diego, California, music can be a powerful tool. “Music can help listeners like myself process and manage their emotions, which, in turn, may help build resilience and emotional intelligence,” he explains. “It can also offer a motivational boost at the beginning or end of the day when we may lack the enthusiasm or vigor.”

Whether it’s to unwind after a long school day or get mentally prepared for the day ahead, music can help achieve those goals. Selecting the right songs for your family’s commute involves considering the mood, energy, and appropriateness of the lyrics based on your child’s age. Here are some additional tips to help you pick the right tunes.

• Consider your commute length: Think about how much time you have for listening.
• Assess the emotional tone of the day: Match the music to your family’s emotional goals, whether it’s energizing or calming.
• Match the energy level: Choose songs that align with your family’s energy levels for school.
• Stick to familiar favorites: Select songs that evoke comfort or joy.
• Review the lyrics: Ensure the songs are age-appropriate.
• Opt for uplifting tunes: Look for positive, high-energy songs for the morning commute.
• Choose relaxing music for the ride home: Softer songs can help your child decompress after a long day.
• Be open to new genres: Experiment with different styles to keep things fresh.