As early learning professionals, we know that young children have loads of energy, and they love to move! Activities that include movement and rhythm can also become fun early learning opportunities for little ones. Movement is good for gross motor skill development, and is a great way for children to get the wiggles out before settling down to more focused activities. This article shares children’s books, videos, and activities that can add music, rhyme, rhythm, and exercise to your early learning curriculum.
This children’s book, written by Tae-Eun Yoo, guides children through a series of animal-themed yoga poses, from sitting like a butterfly to stretching like a snake. Little ones (and their caregivers!) will enjoy following along with the poses outlined in this story.
Find this book available for purchase here or watch a free read-aloud video here.
Everybunny Dance!, written by Ellie Sandall, tells the story of a group of little bunnies who break out their dance moves when nobody is watching. Children will enjoy following along with the book’s colorful illustrations to join the bunnies as they clap their paws and shake their tails.
Find this book available for purchase here or watch a free read-aloud video here.
“Stomp your feet, clap your hands, everybody ready for a barnyard dance!” This children’s book is written by Sandra Boynton, whose books are often very popular with toddlers and preschoolers. The book has playful images and rhyming text. The dance moves that are included are upbeat and simple for young children to follow.
Find this book available for purchase here or watch a free read-aloud video here.
Most early learning teachers are familiar with this popular children’s song, which invites children to move their bodies as they sing the names of different body parts. For some variety, it’s fun to encourage little ones to sing the song as fast as they can, and then as slowly as they can!
Find the video here.
Young children will find it easy to follow along with this simple and fun song. The song encourages children to wiggle, clap, wave and move their bodies in different ways. They’ll also want to use their listening skills and follow instructions when the song says it’s time to freeze!
Find the video here.
This video, from Sesame Street, features a jazzy upbeat song that will inspire children to move their bodies and show off their dance moves! Little ones will enjoy following along as Elmo encourages them to slide, hop, and flap their arms.
Find the video here.
