Christmas isn't about a calendar or a checklist. It all began with worship—a newborn King in a manger and a song so full of glory that heaven itself could not stay silent. Angels proclaimed it. Shepherds left everything to find it. And the invitation has never been withdrawn: to this very day, Christmas calls us to worship.
In this feature, we'll present part two of Worship at the Manger: A Kids Christmas! This second collection of songs was created for children––and it invites them to worship the newborn King. The songs are simple enough for young voices, strong enough to serve a congregation, and centered enough to keep Jesus—not the program—at the heart of Christmas.
Below you'll find beloved carols standing beside new songs of praise so kids can sing the story and worship Jesus. These songs will have your children running to the manger with joy, lifting their voices with the angels!
CHILDREN'S UNISON (EASY)
Joy to the World
Arranged by Travis Cottrell, Paul Marino
This driving, contemporary unison version of the traditional carol is fun for younger and older kids choirs alike. For that matter, simple adult choirs might consider making this Travis Cottrell arrangement the finale of their Christmas program!
CHILDREN'S UNISON (EASY)
What Kind of King
What Kind of King (with video track)
Arranged by Dixie Phillips, Sharon Phillips
"What Kind of King" explores the wonder of the manger: a King without a palace, a throne of hay, and a love that came all the way down to us. Easy to learn and sweetly simple, this adorable children's ballad draws us to the humble King and adds a tender, heartfelt moment to your Christmas services.
Arranged by Terry Winch
A majestic melody frames the Christmas story in an elegant 2-part arrangement that inspires worship and would work well in traditional, blended, and contemporary services alike. Works equally well for older children's choir or adult choir. [Simple Orchestration available to Unlimited PLUS Members].
CHILDREN'S UNISON (EASY)
Away in a Manger
Arranged by Paul Marino
Perfect for young voices, this gentle acoustic arrangement of the timeless carol features simple unison vocals, an optional solo and modern instrumentation that will fit any service in the Christmas season.
CHILDREN'S 2-PART (EASY)
Joy to the World w/ Joy to the World! The Lord Is Come
Arranged by Kris Crunk
This song for 2-part children's choir touches the heart with a simple melody paired with a fun, modern track. Includes a section for the congregation to join in the singing, as well as an optional handbell part!
CHILDREN'S UNISON (EASY)
God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen
Arranged by Dennis Allen
Faithful to the traditional lyrics and melody of the Christmas favorite, this beautiful arrangement features unison children's choir with soloist, accompanied by acoustic guitar and piano.
CHILDREN'S UNISON (EASY)
How I Wish (That I Could Have Been There Then)
Arranged by David Huntsinger
From arranger David Huntsinger, this precious, melodic ballad is sure to warm hearts during the Christmas season. Arranged for child solo or unison children's choir.
CHILDREN'S UNISON (MEDIUM DIFFICULTY)
Angels We Have Heard on High
Arranged by Dennis Allen
Moving between unison and 2-part harmony, this bright and cheerfully rocking arrangement is equally-suited to a kids choir performance or congregational sing-along.
CHILDREN'S UNISON (EASY)
Star Song
Arranged by Dennis Allen
A simple lyric is paired with a bluesy melody that elicits memories of "A Charlie Brown Christmas" will make this song a favorite for your kid's choir.
