Catharine Hannay, MA
Catharine Hannay is the founder of MindfulTeachers.org and the author of Being You: A Girl’s Guide to Mindfulness, a workbook for teen girls on mindfulness, compassion, and self-acceptance.
10 Songs with Powerful Messages for Parents
Here are ten thought-provoking songs to help you think about your relationship with your kids and if there’s anything you’d like to change. Some of these songs are specifically about parent-child dynamics; others focus on the misunderstandings and conflicts that can happen in any close relationship.
- Cat’s in the Cradle, by Harry Chapin (cover by Ugly Kid Joe)
This classic song reminds parents to spend time with your kids because someday you’ll want them to spend time with you.
- Children Will Listen, by Stephen Sondheim (performed by One Voice Children’s Choir)
Your kids may not always do what you tell them to do, but they’re always watching and listening, so be careful about the messages you’re sending.
- Daughters, John Mayer
The way you treat your kids sets the stage for their future relationships.
- It Won’t Be Like This For Long, Darius Rucker
Whatever challenges you’re facing as a parent right now may seem like they’ll last forever, but in retrospect it will feel like your kids grew up too fast.
- Listen, Kyshona Armstrong
Kids feel hurt and invalidated if you keep interrupting or lecturing them when they’re trying to explain their point of view.
- Love Me When I Don’t, Pentatonix
Kids sometimes push people away rather than asking for help when they’re struggling. They need someone to love them when they don’t feel lovable.
- Parents, Nothing More, Rosa Lee and Damon Timm (in ASL and English)
While their baby is napping, a couple perform a song about putting their dreams on hold to raise a child.
- Ready, Set, Don’t Go, Billy Ray Cyrus
It can be a challenge to step back and let your teen or young adult start to become more independent.
- Start Somewhere, Toby Mac
Rather than continuing to escalate a conflict, you can choose to make an attempt at healing and understanding.
- Talk to Me, Cavetown
You don’t have to lecture them or solve their problems. Sometimes your kids just need someone they can talk to about everything that’s going on in their lives.
If you’re located in California and need help determining if your child and/or family need professional help, contact Family Spring by submitting an inquiry at this link.
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