Children usually find the bass clef harder to grasp, so keep it light and playful and give them lots of clues if they get stuck.

Then help them to identify the notes in the left hand, a phrase at a time.To introduce the left hand notes and how they fit with the tune above, play the left hand as a duet as the child plays the right hand tune.The left hand should only be attempted once the child understands the bass clef.Always break up learning a new piece into shorter sections, don’t try to push on until they can manage each phrase with ease.Work through the song in this way, one phrase at a time and repeat each phrase a few times before moving on to the next.Then let the child try to play the first phrase on the piano, demonstrate first if they aren’t sure.Sing the note names while tapping the correct fingers in the rhythm of the tune. Follow the sheet music and take a phrase at a time.

Then using a treble clef note chart, help the child to identify the notes of the first phrase.

Then ask the child to have a go themselves, tracing the notes on the music as you both sing them together.

Trace the melody with your finger as you sing the song.

Then sing through again but this time following the music.

First sing the song and clap the rhythm together without any accompaniment.

So you can make the most of this as you teach them how to play it on the piano.

Because this is such a well known song, kids love singing along.

At first, only attempt the right hand tune.

How To Play You Are My Sunshine on the Piano

Printable you are my sunshine poem