Why does my toddler ask for the same song 20 times?

Because repetition is how toddlers learn and self-soothe.

A favorite song gives them:

• Predictability — they know what comes next, which feels safe.
• Practice — hearing it again helps them remember words, sounds, and patterns.
• Mastery — they enjoy predicting lyrics and feeling “I know this!”
• Control — choosing the same song is a small way to control their world.

It often gets especially strong when they’re tired, overstimulated, or need comfort.

What helps:

• Set a limit: “Two more times, then a new song.”
• Use the song actively: pause and ask what comes next.
• Offer a familiar switch-up: a different version of the same song.

Same song, many times, is usually a normal toddler thing.