Train songs have been a beloved part of children’s music for generations. There's something magical about the idea of a train journey—the rhythmic chug of the wheels, the long whistle blowing in the distance, and the sense of adventure they inspire. For kids, trains represent excitement, curiosity, and the thrill of the unknown, making them a perfect theme for fun and educational songs.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the best train songs for kids, covering both classic favorites and newer tracks that encourage creativity, learning, and lots of movement. Whether you’re a parent looking for fun sing-along songs for your child or a teacher searching for musical activities for the classroom, these about songs trains are sure to delight young audiences and keep them engaged.

1. "Down by the Station"

A timeless classic, “Down by the Station” is one of the most popular train songs for kids. Its simple, repetitive lyrics make it easy for children to learn and sing along, while its playful tune captures the excitement of a train leaving the station.

"Down by the station, early in the morning,
See the little pufferbellies all in a row.
See the engine driver pull the little handle,
Chug, chug, toot, toot, off we go!"

This song not only introduces children to the basic concepts of trains, such as engines, tracks, and the sound of the whistle, but it also encourages participation through hand motions and imitation of train sounds. Perfect for group settings or one-on-one play, “Down by the Station” is a must-have in any collection of train songs for kids.

2. "The Little Engine That Could"

Based on the famous children’s story “The Little Engine That Could,” this song captures the heartwarming message of perseverance and determination. The little engine’s struggle to climb a steep hill while repeating the mantra “I think I can” teaches children the importance of positive thinking and hard work.

"I think I can, I think I can, I think I can..."

The repetitive rhythm of the song mirrors the train’s slow and steady climb up the hill, reinforcing the idea that effort and belief can help overcome obstacles. This song is a great way to introduce children to important life lessons while keeping them entertained. Its cheerful melody and encouraging lyrics make it a favorite in preschools and early childhood classrooms.

3. "The Wheels on the Train"

A fun twist on the classic “The Wheels on the Bus,” “The Wheels on the Train” adapts the well-loved format to a train theme. Kids can sing along to the familiar tune while learning about the different parts of a train and mimicking its movements.

"The wheels on the train go round and round,
Round and round, round and round.
The whistle on the train goes toot, toot, toot,
All day long."

Just like the original, this song encourages children to get involved by making the sound effects and hand movements for each part of the train. Whether it’s the “whistle” going “toot, toot” or the “doors” going “open and shut,” “The Wheels on the Train” provides plenty of opportunities for kids to use their imagination and practice their motor skills.

4. "Freight Train" by Elizabeth Cotten

Originally a folk song written by Elizabeth Cotten, “Freight Train” has been embraced by children’s music due to its gentle melody and soothing repetition. The song describes a train moving quickly down the tracks, creating a peaceful, dream-like atmosphere that’s perfect for quiet moments or bedtime.

"Freight train, freight train, run so fast,
Please don’t tell what train I’m on,
So they won’t know where I’ve gone."

Though it was written for a wider audience, “Freight Train” has become a favorite among children for its easy-to-learn lyrics and calming effect. It’s a great choice for quieter times, like naptime or storytime, offering a beautiful melody that encourages relaxation and imagination.

5. "Thomas the Tank Engine Theme Song"

For children who love the world of Thomas and his friends, the “Thomas the Tank Engine Theme Song” is a fun, energetic track that introduces the iconic characters from the Island of Sodor. This upbeat song captures the sense of adventure that Thomas and his friends experience in every episode of the beloved TV show.

"They’re two, they’re four, they’re six, they’re eight,
Shunting trucks and hauling freight.
Red and green and brown and blue,
They’re the really useful crew!"

With its catchy tune and lively rhythm, this song is perfect for kids who are fans of the show. It introduces the names and roles of the different trains, encouraging children to engage with the characters while singing along. The theme song also helps build excitement for learning about teamwork and problem-solving, key themes in the Thomas the Tank Engine series.

6. "Choo Choo Train" by The Wiggles

The Wiggles, known for their fun and interactive children’s music, bring trains to life in “Choo Choo Train.” This energetic and catchy song gets kids up and moving, mimicking the sounds and movements of a train.

"Choo choo train, chugging down the track,
Gotta get our bodies moving, never look back."

With its upbeat tempo and easy-to-follow lyrics, “Choo Choo Train” is perfect for active play. Kids can pretend to be trains, moving their arms like wheels and chugging along as they sing. It’s an excellent choice for a dance party, playtime, or even as part of a movement activity in a preschool setting.

7. "Engine, Engine Number Nine"

“Engine, Engine Number Nine” is a short and simple rhyme that has been enjoyed by generations of children. This classic nursery rhyme is perfect for teaching rhythm, counting, and sequencing in a fun, memorable way.

"Engine, engine, number nine,
Going down Chicago line,
If the train goes off the track,
Do you want your money back?"

The repetitive nature of this rhyme makes it easy for young children to remember and sing along. It’s often chanted or sung in a call-and-response style, making it a great interactive song for group settings like circle time in preschool. “Engine, Engine Number Nine” is also an excellent way to introduce children to the basic elements of trains and numbers.

8. "Little Red Caboose"

“Little Red Caboose” is a sweet, simple song that celebrates the caboose, the last car on a train. In the song, the little red caboose may be at the back of the train, but it’s still an important part of the whole.

"Little red caboose behind the train,
Little red caboose behind the train,
Smokestack on its back,
Going down the track,
Little red caboose behind the train."

This song not only introduces children to different parts of a train but also encourages them to appreciate the role that every part plays in making something work. It’s a fun, catchy tune that children love to sing, and it’s easy to accompany with hand movements to further engage young learners.

9. "The Train Is A-Comin’"

A cheerful folk song, “The Train Is A-Comin’” is a great addition to any collection of train songs for kids. Its upbeat, repetitive lyrics make it easy to sing along, while its joyful tone captures the excitement of an approaching train.

"The train is a-comin', oh yes,
The train is a-comin', oh yes,
The train is a-comin',
The train is a-comin',
The train is a-comin', oh yes!"

The song’s structure makes it ideal for group singing, with plenty of opportunities for children to clap, stomp, or mimic the sounds of a train as they sing. “The Train Is A-Comin’” is perfect for early childhood settings where active participation is encouraged.

Conclusion

Trains have long captured the imaginations of children, symbolizing adventure, excitement, and exploration. Songs about trains are a great way to channel that excitement into music, helping kids learn about rhythm, teamwork, and perseverance, all while having fun. From timeless classics like “Down by the Station” and “The Little Engine That Could” to modern favorites like The Wiggles’ “Choo Choo Train,” these songs are perfect for sing-alongs, playtime, or quiet moments of reflection.

Whether you're a parent looking for fun ways to engage your child or a teacher planning a train-themed lesson, these train songs for kids are sure to bring joy, movement, and plenty of smiles to the classroom or home. So next time you hear the distant sound of a train whistle, why not break into song and take your child on a musical train journey of their own?