We’ve all heard the phrase 'sleep like a baby', and that’s probably because babies are gently rocked to sleep while listening to soothing lullaby songs sung by someone they love. Just picturing it is enough to make our own eyes feel heavy! Lullabies aren’t just a sweet tradition; they’re scientifically proven to calm a baby’s nervous system, slow their heart rate, and create a sense of security. The gentle rhythm and repetition mimic the sounds of the womb, making them the perfect sleep cue for little ones (and sometimes even exhausted parents, too!).
Lullabies have been around for centuries, with the earliest known ones dating back to 2,000 BC. But unlike today’s gentle melodies, those ancient lullabies were more like eerie warnings—filled with tales of demons meant to scare little ones back to sleep. Thankfully, modern lullabies for babies are much softer and sweeter (well, except for Rockabye Baby, which still has some pretty questionable lyrics if you think about it.)
In today’s world, baby sleep music comes in many forms, from musical light projectors to gadgets like Yoto players. But nothing quite compares to the power of a simple lullaby. Far from being just an old wives' tale, lullabies have a magical way of soothing fussy or colicky babies, making bedtime (and life) a little easier. When used as part of a consistent bedtime routine, they help little ones recognise sleep cues, making settling down smoother. Their slow, rhythmic patterns even help regulate a baby’s heart rate and breathing, promoting deeper, more restful sleep. Best of all, lullabies don’t cost a thing - but they’re a priceless tool for strengthening the bond between you and your precious baby.
The best lullabies
Rock-a-Bye Baby
Rock-a-Bye Baby is one of the most well-known lullabies, with roots tracing back to the 1700s. While its lyrics do hint at a rather dramatic scene - warning of a cradle tumbling down—like all classic songs, its meaning is open to interpretation. Regardless of the deeper message, one thing is certain: its gentle, rhythmic melody has stood the test of time, helping to soothe little ones and lull them into a peaceful sleep.
Rock-a-Bye Baby Lyrics
Rock a bye baby on the tree top,
When the wind blows the cradle will rock,
When the bough breaks the cradle will fall,
And down will come baby, cradle and all.
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star
The lyrics to this classic—heard in pre-schools around the country—come from a poem by Jane Taylor written in 1806. With its images of stars and the night sky, along with the disappearing sun, this song is the perfect way to evoke sleep. Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star is a family favourite. The words encourage dreaming, wonder, and imagination—all the things we hope our little ones experience as they drift off to sleep.
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star Lyrics
Twinkle Twinkle, Little Star
How I wonder what you are
Up above the world so high
Like a diamond in the sky
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
How I wonder what you are!
Twinkle Twinkle, Little Star
How I wonder what you are
Up above the world so high
Like a diamond in the sky
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
How I wonder what you are!
Row, Row, Row Your Boat
Row, Row, Row Your Boat is a fantastic lullaby because, depending on your tone, it can be used as a soothing nighttime song or an exciting part of play. If you plan to use it as part of bedtime, it's a good idea to use a quieter tone alongside a gentle rocking motion. Before birth, babies are constantly being swayed by their mother’s movements and surrounded by rhythmic sounds like her heartbeat and voice. Rocking and lullabies recreate this familiar environment, making babies feel safe and secure.
Row, Row, Row Your Boat Lyrics
Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the stream,
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily,
Life is but a dream.
Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the stream,
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily,
Life is but a dream.
Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the stream,
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily,
Life is but a dream.
Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the stream,
If you see a crocodile,
Don't forget to scream - Aghh!
Hey Diddle Diddle
The Mother&Baby team had a bit of a debate over whether this truly counts as a lullaby, but after some careful consideration, we decided it definitely earned its spot on our list. We love the dreamy imagery and the gentle nighttime themes woven into the lyrics. Much like Row, Row, Row Your Boat, the way you sing it makes all the difference—your tone is key to setting a calm, sleepy atmosphere.
Hey Diddle Diddle Lyrics
Hey, diddle diddle, the cat and the fiddle,
The cow jumped over the moon.
The little dog laughed to see such fun
And the dish ran away with the spoon!
Hush Little Baby
Hush, Little Baby is a classic lullaby sung to sleepy little ones all over the world. Its charm lies in its simplicity—a gentle, repetitive tune filled with loving promises and tiny gifts to help lull babies to sleep. We love that you can swap out 'Papa' for ''Mama,' 'Granny,' or anyone else who fits the bedtime routine. It's the musical version of a warm cuddle, perfect for winding down the day.
Listen to Hush Little Baby on Amazon Music
Hush Little Baby Lyrics
Hush, little baby, don't you
Hush, little baby, don't say a word
Papa's gonna buy you a mockingbird
And if that mocking bird don't sing
Papa's gonna buy you a diamond ring
And if that diamond ring is brass
Papa's gonna buy you a looking glass
And if that looking glass gets broke
Papa's gonna buy you a billy goat
And if that billy goat don't pull
Papa's gonna buy you a cart and bull
And if that cart and bull turn over
Papa's gonna buy you a dog called Rover
And if that dog called Rover don't bark
Papa's gonna buy you a horse and cart
And if that horse and cart turn round
You'll still be the sweetest little babe in town (be the sweetest little babe)
Still, be the sweetest little babe in town
Brother John
Brother John (or Frère Jacques, if French or feeling fancy) is the classic round song that’s been lulling little ones to sleep for generations. Its simple, repetitive melody and soothing rhythm make it a great lullaby—easy to hum, easy to sing, and guaranteed to stick in your head. The lyrics tell the tale of a sleepy monk who’s supposed to be ringing the morning bells but is, well… still snoozing. It's a little ironic for a bedtime song, but it has a magical way of calming even the most restless baby when sung softly.
Listen to Brother John on Amazon Music
Brother John Lyrics
Are you sleeping?
Are you sleeping?
Brother John?
Brother John?
Morning bells are ringing
Morning bells are ringing
Ding-ding-dong
Ding-ding-dong
Frère Jacques
Frère Jacques
Dormez-vous?
Dormez-vous?
Sonnez les matines
Sonnez les matines
Ding-ding-dong
Ding-ding-dong
Best modern baby sleep music for bedtime
If lullabies aren’t your vibe, plenty of modern songs can work just as well. Whether you choose to sing along or simply snuggle up and let the music play in the background, these calming melodies can still work their sleepy magic.
Amazing Grace
Amazing Grace is a beautiful hymn, with its gentle melody and soothing lyrics, perfect for calming little ones at bedtime. Its message of love, protection, and finding peace can be a comforting reassurance as they drift off to sleep. Softly singing this classic hymn can create a peaceful bedtime routine, wrapping your baby in warmth and security.
Amazing Grace Lyrics
Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
Through many dangers, toils, and snares
We have already come
'Twas grace that brought us safe thus far
And grace will lead us home
When we've been there ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun
Than when we've first begun
You Are My Sunshine
Although originally a country song, You Are My Sunshine, it works very well as a song for singing your baby to sleep because of its moving lyrics. It’s considered one of the most-covered songs in American popular music, having been recorded by over 350 artists and translated into at least 30 languages.
You Are My Sunshine Lyrics
You are my sunshine
My only sunshine
You make me happy
When skies are grey
You'll never know, dear
How much I love you
Please don't take
My sunshine away
Isn’t She Lovely
This Stevie Wonder song, an ode to his own daughter, Aisha, makes a beautiful lullaby. The adjectives describing Aisha just after her birth—lovely, wonderful, precious—will likely feel familiar to any new mum or dad, and you can change the 'she' to 'he', too.
Isn’t She Lovely Lyrics
Isn't she wonderful
Isn't she precious
Less than one minute old
I never thought through love, we'd be
Making one as lovely as she
But isn't she lovely, made from love
Isn't she pretty
Truly, the angel's best
Boy, I'm so happy
We have been heaven blessed
I can't believe what God has done
Through us, he's given life to one
But isn't she lovely, made from love
La Vie En Rose
Written in 1945 by Edith Piaf, La Vie en Rose has been covered countless times in both French and English, but we especially love Emily Watt’s version—featured in a whopping 1.8 million Instagram reels (mostly adorable newborn videos!). The song, which translates to 'Life in Pink' is all about seeing the world through rose-coloured glasses. And what better lullaby for your baby? Because even though newborn life can be tough when we look at our little ones, all we see is pure love and joy.
Listen to La Via En Rose on Amazon Music
“La Vie En Rose Lyrics
Hold me close and hold me fast
This magic spell you cast
This is "La vie en rose"
When you kiss me, heaven sighs
And though I close my eyes
I see "La vie en rose"
When you press me to your heart
I'm in a world apart
A world where roses bloom
And when you speak, angels sing from above
Everyday words seem to turn into love songs
Give your heart and soul to me
And life will always be
"La vie en rose"
Star Light, Star Bright
This classic nursery rhyme is all about the magic of wishing on a star, capturing that timeless hope that if you see a shooting star, your wish just might come true. Thought to have originated in America, it’s been whispered at bedtime for generations, adding a sprinkle of wonder to sleepy little heads. Over the years, it has inspired a few musical versions for children, making it a sweet and simple lullaby to sing.
Star Light, Star Bright Lyrics
Star light,
Star bright,
First star I see tonight
I wish I may,
I wish I might.
Have the wish I wish tonight.
Baby Mine
Originally featured in Disney’s 1941 classic Dumbo (and in the 2019 remake), Baby Mine is the ultimate tearjerker lullaby. Sung by Dumbo’s mother as she cradles her baby, it’s a gentle, heartfelt song that perfectly captures the deep bond between parent and child. With its soothing melody and reassuring lyrics, it’s the kind of lullaby that wraps your little one in warmth, reminding them that no matter what, you’ll always be there. Just be warned—you might get misty-eyed while singing it.
Listen to Baby Mine on Amazon Music
Baby Mine Lyrics
Baby mine, don't you cry.
Baby mine, dry your eyes.
Rest your head close to my heart,
Never to part, baby of mine.
Little one, when you play,
Pay no heed what they say.
Let your eyes sparkle and shine,
Never a tear, baby of mine.
If they knew all about you,
They'd end up loving you, too.
All those same people who scold you,
What they'd give just for the right to hold you.
From your hair down to your toes,
You're not much, goodness knows.
But, you're so precious to me,
Sweet as can be, baby of mine.
Sweet Dreams, Goodnight Song
This sweet and soothing lullaby, covered by Super Simple Songs on YouTube, is a lovely addition to any bedtime routine. Its gentle melody and calming lyrics send a clear but comforting message: 'It's time to sleep'.' Whether you sing it softly or let the peaceful tune play in the background, it's a simple yet magical way to help your little one wind down and drift off to dreamland.
Listen to Sweet Dreams, Goodnight Song on Youtube
“Sweet Dreams, Goodnight Song Lyrics
Goodnight to you, goodnight to me,
Now close your eyes and go to sleep
Goodnight, sleep tight,
Sweet dreams tonight,
Goodnight, I love you.
(repeat three times)
Golden Slumbers
Originally based on a 17th-century poem by Thomas Dekker, Golden Slumbers was given new life when The Beatles recorded their own version for Abbey Road in 1969. The tender lyrics and dreamy melody make it a beautifully modern lullaby that feels both nostalgic and timeless. Whether you sing it softly or play the original, it’s a heartwarming way to lull your baby to sleep because if it’s good enough to close out a Beatles album, it’s certainly good enough for bedtime.
Golden Slumbers Lyrics
Once, there was a way
To get back homeward
Once, there was a way
To get back home
Sleep, pretty darling, do not cry
And I will sing a lullaby
Golden slumbers fill your eyes
Smiles awake you when you rise
Sleep, pretty darling, do not cry
And I will sing a lullaby
Once, there was a way
To get back homeward
Once, there was a way
To get back home
Sleep, pretty darling, do not cry
And I will sing a lullaby
Heaven
Bryan Adams might not have written Heaven as a lullaby, but its soft melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a surprisingly perfect choice for bedtime. Originally released in 1983, this classic love ballad is all about finding comfort and safety in someone’s arms—exactly the reassurance a baby needs as they drift off to sleep.
Heaven Lyrics
Baby, you're all that I want
When you're lying here in my arms
I'm finding it hard to believe
We're in heaven.
And love is all that I need,
And I found it there in your heart
It isn't too hard to see,
We're in heaven
You'll Be In My Heart
Sung by Phil Collins, this heartfelt ballad is another underrated Disney gem featured in Tarzan. The song plays during a touching scene where Tarzan’s adoptive mother cradles him, singing to reassure him that he’s safe and loved. With its gentle melody and powerful lyrics, You'll Be in My Heart makes a perfect lullaby, reminding your little one that you’ll always be there for them no matter what.
“You'll Be In My Heart” Lyrics
Come stop your crying, it will be alright
Just take my hand, hold it tight.
I will protect you from, all around you
I will be here, don't you cry.
For one so small, you seem so strong
My arms will hold you,
Keep you safe and warm.
This bond between us, can't be broken
I will be here don't you cry.
Cause you'll be in my heart
Yes, you'll be in my heart
From this day on,
Now and forever more
You'll be in my heart
No matter what they say,
You'll be here in my heart, always
Always.
Remember, there is no sweeter way to put your baby to bed than with a soothing lullaby. As you snuggle close to your little ones at bedtime (and gazing at them in awe), adding music to the experience can help grow your sense of connection, help calm them into an easier routine, and even improve your child’s cognitive development.
Why will a lullaby help put your baby to sleep?
As any parent knows, getting a newborn—or a toddler, for that matter—to sleep (and stay asleep) can sometimes feel like a never-ending challenge. However, according to Dr. Robin Clark, Medical Director at Bupa UK Insurance, lullabies can make all the difference. "Studies show that lullabies can help children fall asleep faster, especially when sung by parents. They can trigger a relaxation response, making bedtime a much calmer experience."
And the benefits don’t stop there. As your little one grows, lullabies become more than just a soothing tool-they become a fun and familiar part of the bedtime routine. Instead of resisting sleep, your toddler might even start singing along to their favourite nursery rhymes, making bedtime a little less of a battle.
Of course, babies cry for all sorts of reasons-whether it’s a wet nappy, hunger, or feeling unsettled. However, sleep is crucial for their growth and development, with newborns needing around 14-17 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. While they typically sleep in short bursts of around four hours, they frequently wake to feed (tiny tummies don’t stay full for long) before either drifting back to sleep or flashing you an adorable, wide-eyed smile.
Better sleep isn’t just good for your baby but also for you. A well-rested baby is happier, more engaged, and more content, which means you might just get a little extra time for yourself (perhaps even enough to catch up on that Netflix series you’ve been meaning to watch). And let’s be honest, a bedtime routine filled with lullabies isn’t just good for babies; it’s a little magic for parents, too.
Where can I listen to lullabies?
Many lullabies can be listened to on music streaming platforms such as Amazon Music and Youtube, where artists cover traditional, modern lullabies or even classical lullabies from Mozart for a consistent, soothing playlist. You can also invest in devices such as a Toniebox to play lullabies from certain tonie figures.
About the expert
Dr Robin Clarke is Medical Director for Bupa Global and UK Insurance. He started his career as a GP and has worked across different organisations over his 15 years of experience.
Hannah Carroll is our Senior Digital Writer. In her capacity, she curates top-notch listicles, crafts insightful how-to guides, and delivers expert product reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah draws upon her comprehensive understanding of all facets of family life to bring true insight into all the products that make running a home easier.