Write and perform an original song by creating lyrics, a melody, and simple rhythm using voice or household instruments; record or share your performance.


Step-by-step guide to create an original song
Step 1
Pick a fun topic for your song and decide if it will feel happy sad brave or silly.
Step 2
Write 6 to 10 words or short phrases about your topic on the paper.
Step 3
Hum three different short melodies and choose the one that sounds best to you.
Step 4
Create one catchy chorus line using words from your list and write it down.
Step 5
Write a first verse of three to five lines that tells part of your story.
Step 6
Write a second verse or a short bridge of three to five lines that continues the story.
Step 7
Decide on a simple steady beat using claps stomps or a household instrument.
Step 8
Practice tapping the beat slowly until it feels steady.
Step 9
Sing the chorus using your chosen melody while keeping the steady beat.
Step 10
Put your song parts in order such as intro verse chorus verse chorus so you know the structure.
Step 11
Rehearse your whole song from start to finish at least three times.
Step 12
Record your best performance with an adult's help and share your finished song on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

Help!?
What can we use if we don't have the 'paper', a household instrument, or a recording device listed in the instructions?
Use a notebook or a phone note for your 6โ10 words, substitute claps, stomps, or a wooden spoon on a pot for the household instrument, and ask an adult to record your rehearsal on their smartphone to upload to DIY.org.
My child can't keep a steady beat or chooses a melody that doesn't fit โ how do we fix that?
Follow the step to practice tapping the beat slowly until it feels steady, try a metronome app or counting out loud while you hum the three different short melodies, and pick the melody that stays steady with the chosen clap or stomp pattern.
How can I adapt this song activity for younger or older kids?
For younger children reduce the list to 2โ4 words and a one-line chorus with simple claps, while older kids can write full 3โ5 line verses, experiment with harmony, and use a household instrument for more complex arrangements.
What are some ways to extend or personalize the finished song before sharing it on DIY.org?
Add a simple ukulele or keyboard chord progression, layer extra percussion with household items during rehearsals, create cover art or a short music video of your recorded performance, and then share the finished version on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to create an original song
Facts about songwriting for kids
โ๏ธ Paul McCartney famously dreamt the melody for "Yesterday" and finished the song soon after.
๐๏ธ Many professional songs started as home demos recorded on simple devices โ your phone can capture a great demo!
๐ต Many unforgettable melodies use just 3โ7 notes repeated in different ways.
๐ฅ Most pop songs sit between about 60 and 130 beats per minute, a range that feels natural to move to.
๐ธ Singer-songwriters often write and perform with one instrument โ usually guitar or piano โ to shape their songs.


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