The line has formed! The caps are donned! Let’s get to it, shall we?
Number 10: “Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing”, Aerosmith.
The kids love it, the parents love it. It really captures the potential dramatics of the first sweet step to the next school level.
Number 9: “(I’ve Had) the Time of My Life”, Bill Medley and Jennifer Warner.
Really, this sums up the pre-school experience. It also happened to be my pre-school graduation song, and as a child of the ’80’s with a pre-school aged child of my own, I think this could really come back into vogue with our generation of parents.
Number 8: “Beautiful Day”, U2.
A hopeful, upbeat and optimistic choice that is bound to inspire young ones, teachers, and parents alike. Those kids are going to reach right out and grab that future!
Number 7: “School’s Out”, Alice Cooper.
A slightly more rebellious, rocking choice is bound to give an edge to the day’s events. Don’t get too excited, though, future rebels– school isn’t actually out forever for you, yet.
Number 6: “If I Ever Lose My Faith In You”, Sting.
This is a safe and kind choice that reaffirms the belief parents and teachers have in their respective children and students. It’s something children need to hear, which is why it remains a classic choice.
Number 5: “The Greatest Love of All”, Whitney Houston.
Although dated, this choice continues to jerk tears out of many a sappy parent, teacher, and sometimes, child. And, it’s appropriately all about the children.
Number 4: “I Believe I Can Fly”, R. Kelly.
Despite the controversy over this artist, this song continues to remain a top choice for empowering our youth. If you can get over the stigma associated with R. Kelly, it has the possibility of being a winning selection.
Number 3: “The Circle of Life”, Elton John.
Not only will the kids recognize it as a Disney tune, but the parents and teachers will feel nostalgic– whether it’s for 14 years in their past, or in the reminiscing of their children’s short life unfolding so rapidly before their watery eyes.
Number 2: “I Hope You Dance”, Lee Ann Womack.
While not my first choice personally, it must be recognized as a crowd pleaser, especially amongst the country crowds. Even non-country people seem to dig it, which goes to show that a woman’s voice and a bit of nurturing life advice put to music goes a long way.
Number 1: “You Get What You Give”, The New Radicals.
This powerful anthem gets everyone energized and happy, quickly. It’ll pump you up and prime you for school-aged summertime frivolity (and life itself!), even if it does contain the word “ass” and other perhaps inappropriate and now-irrelevant pop culture references. But, your kids will recognize it from Surf’s Up, and if it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us. This song is a guaranteed party with an overall great message.
