Brenda Song was born in Carmichael, California, to a Thai mother and a Hmong father. Her parents met as refugees, and later moved from Laos to the United States.

The Song family moved to Sacramento, California, where Brenda began her early education. Her father worked as a schoolteacher, and her mother was a homemaker.

Brenda expressed an early interest in performing arts, particularly ballet and taekwondo. She excelled in both, showcasing her discipline and natural talent.

Recognizing Brenda's potential in acting, her family relocated to Los Angeles to support her career aspirations. This was a crucial decision that propelled her into the entertainment industry.

While pursuing acting, Brenda maintained a strong focus on her education. She was home-schooled to accommodate her filming schedule, demonstrating her commitment to both academics and her career.