20 Fun Dance Songs for Kids to Get Moving and Grooving
Looking for the perfect soundtrack to get your kids moving, laughing, and burning off that endless energy? You’ve come to the right place! Our collection of fun dance songs for kids will transform any ordinary day into an exciting dance party that both children and parents can enjoy. From classic favorites to modern hits, these tunes are guaranteed to get little feet tapping and create lasting memories for the whole family.
Why Dance Songs Are Great for Kids
Dance isn’t just fun—it’s an essential activity that contributes to your child’s development in numerous ways. When kids move to music, they’re actually building crucial skills while having a blast!
Physical Benefits
- Improves coordination and motor skills
- Builds stamina and cardiovascular health
- Enhances balance and flexibility
- Helps maintain healthy weight
- Burns excess energy in a positive way
Cognitive & Social Benefits
- Develops rhythm and musical awareness
- Boosts memory through learning dance moves
- Encourages self-expression and creativity
- Builds confidence and social skills
- Creates joyful family bonding moments
Whether you’re a parent looking for rainy day activities, a teacher needing classroom brain breaks, or planning a children’s party, dance songs provide the perfect solution for keeping kids engaged and active.
Top 20 Fun Dance Songs for Kids
We’ve carefully selected these songs based on their catchy beats, age-appropriate lyrics, and ability to get kids moving. Each one has been kid-tested and parent-approved!
1. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
This upbeat hit from the Trolls movie is impossible to resist! With its positive message and infectious rhythm, kids naturally start moving the moment they hear it. The song’s family-friendly lyrics make it perfect for dancers of all ages.
2. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
The title says it all! This cheerful tune encourages kids to clap along and express joy through movement. Its simple, repetitive chorus makes it easy for even the youngest dancers to sing along while they groove.
3. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
Taylor’s catchy anthem about ignoring negativity has a beat that’s perfect for dancing. Kids love the energetic chorus and the message about being yourself. The “shake it off” motion is simple enough for toddlers but fun for older kids too.
4. “Dynamite” by BTS
This K-pop sensation has taken the world by storm with its uplifting energy and positive lyrics. The chorus “light it up like dynamite” inspires explosive dance moves that kids absolutely love to perform.
5. “Roar” by Katy Perry
This empowering anthem encourages kids to find their voice and stand tall. The strong beat makes it perfect for stomping, jumping, and “roaring” along. It’s especially popular with elementary-aged children who connect with its confidence-building message.
6. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
With its funky beat and catchy chorus, this song gets everyone from toddlers to teens moving. The retro vibe appeals to parents too, making it a true family favorite for dance parties.
7. “I Like to Move It” from Madagascar
This movie soundtrack hit has a jungle beat that’s irresistible to young dancers. The simple, repetitive lyrics make it easy for kids to sing along while they show off their wildest dance moves.
8. “Baby Shark” by Pinkfong
Love it or hate it, this viral sensation has become a childhood staple. The simple hand movements make it accessible for even the youngest dancers, while the catchy tune gets stuck in everyone’s head.
9. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” by Shakira
Shakira’s World Cup anthem features a global beat that introduces kids to international music. The energetic rhythm and simple chorus encourage children to create their own moves inspired by different cultures.
10. “Dance Monkey” by Tones and I
This unique-sounding hit has a bouncy rhythm that kids find irresistible. The playful lyrics about dancing make it a natural choice for movement activities, and children love mimicking the monkey theme with their own creative moves.
11. “YMCA” by Village People
This classic never gets old! Kids love forming the letters with their arms, and the simple choreography makes it accessible for all ages. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any children’s event.
12. “Twist and Shout” by The Beatles
Introduce kids to classic rock with this timeless Beatles hit. The instructions to “twist” and “shout” are easy for children to follow, and the energetic beat gets everyone moving across generations.
13. “Let It Go” from Frozen
While not traditionally a dance song, this Disney anthem inspires dramatic movement and self-expression. Children love to twirl, gesture dramatically, and create their own ice princess choreography.
14. “Cha-Cha Slide” by DJ Casper
This interactive dance classic gives clear instructions that even young children can follow. The “slide to the left, slide to the right” directions make it perfect for developing listening skills and coordination.
15. “We Will Rock You” by Queen
The iconic stomp-stomp-clap beat of this rock anthem is perfect for kids who need to release energy. Even toddlers can participate in the simple rhythm while older kids add their own moves.
16. “Macarena” by Los Del Rio
The choreographed hand movements of this 90s hit make it perfect for improving coordination. Kids love mastering the sequence of moves and performing them with increasing speed.
17. “Hakuna Matata” from The Lion King
This beloved Disney song teaches kids to “have no worries” while they dance along. The upbeat tempo and positive message make it perfect for brightening any day with movement.
18. “Better When I’m Dancing” by Meghan Trainor
As the title suggests, this uplifting song celebrates how dancing improves your mood. The positive lyrics and catchy beat encourage kids to express themselves through movement whenever they need a boost.
19. “Chicken Dance”
This silly classic never fails to get kids giggling while they flap their “wings” and wiggle their “tail feathers.” The repetitive structure makes it easy for children of all ages to join in the fun.
20. “Everything Is Awesome” from The LEGO Movie
This high-energy song’s positive message that “everything is awesome” encourages kids to dance with enthusiasm. The fast tempo and repetitive chorus make it perfect for jumping and bouncing around.
Age-Appropriate Playlist Ideas
Different age groups respond to different types of music and movement activities. Here are some tailored playlist suggestions based on developmental stages:
Toddlers (Ages 1-3)
Focus on simple, repetitive songs with clear actions and movements:
- “Baby Shark” by Pinkfong
- “If You’re Happy and You Know It”
- “Wheels on the Bus”
- “Hokey Pokey”
- “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes”
Tip: Keep dance sessions short (5-10 minutes) and demonstrate movements for little ones to copy.
Preschoolers (Ages 3-5)
Include songs with simple instructions and imaginative themes:
- “Freeze Dance” (any upbeat song)
- “I Like to Move It” from Madagascar
- “Hakuna Matata” from The Lion King
- “Chicken Dance”
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake
Tip: Add props like scarves or ribbons to encourage creative movement.
Elementary (Ages 6-10)
Incorporate more complex choreography and popular hits:
- “Cha-Cha Slide” by DJ Casper
- “Macarena” by Los Del Rio
- “Dynamite” by BTS
- “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
- “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
Tip: Let kids take turns teaching each other simple dance moves or creating their own choreography.
Playlist Ideas for Different Occasions
Birthday Party Playlist
- “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake
- “YMCA” by Village People
- “Cha-Cha Slide” by DJ Casper
- “Everything Is Awesome” from The LEGO Movie
Classroom Brain Break Playlist
- “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift (2-minute version)
- “Better When I’m Dancing” by Meghan Trainor
- “I Like to Move It” from Madagascar
- “Roar” by Katy Perry
- “Dance Monkey” by Tones and I
Where to Stream or Download Kid-Friendly Dance Songs
Finding the perfect dance songs for your kids has never been easier with today’s streaming platforms. Here are the best places to access kid-friendly music:
Spotify
Spotify offers numerous kid-friendly playlists like “Kids Dance Party” and “Family Dance Mix.” The free version works well, but Premium allows for offline listening and no ads.
YouTube
YouTube and YouTube Kids offer endless dance videos with visual demonstrations perfect for children who learn by watching. Many videos include simple choreography to follow along.
Amazon Music
Amazon Music includes many kid-friendly playlists, and Prime members get access to thousands of songs at no additional cost. Great for creating custom dance party playlists.
Tips for Creating a Dance Party at Home
Transform your living room into the ultimate dance floor with these simple ideas that will make your family dance party extra special:
Setting the Stage
- Clear the space – Move furniture to create a safe dance area with plenty of room to move.
- Simple lighting – String lights, a lamp with a colored scarf draped over it, or even a disco ball light (available inexpensively online) can transform the mood.
- DIY decorations – Hang streamers, blow up balloons, or let kids make dance party signs to set the festive atmosphere.
- Sound setup – Use a bluetooth speaker for better sound quality than phone speakers. Position it where it won’t get knocked over.
Making It Fun
- Dance games – Try freeze dance, dance charades, or follow-the-leader to keep kids engaged.
- Props box – Fill a box with scarves, silly sunglasses, hats, and other accessories kids can use while dancing.
- Dance circle – Take turns having each person go in the middle to show off their best moves.
- Refreshment station – Set up a simple water and snack area for dance breaks. Dancers need to stay hydrated!
Dance Games to Try
Freeze Dance
Play music and have everyone dance, then suddenly pause it. When the music stops, dancers must freeze in position. Anyone who moves is out until the next round.
Dance Charades
Write down different animals or actions on slips of paper. Each dancer draws one and has to dance like that animal or action while others guess.
Dance Limbo
Hold a broomstick or pool noodle horizontally and have kids dance under it without touching. Lower it after each successful round.
Safety Tip
Always supervise young children during dance parties. Remove any breakable items from the dance area and ensure the floor is free of tripping hazards. For very young children, avoid overstimulation by keeping music at a reasonable volume and limiting dance time to 15-20 minutes.
Get Your Kids Moving with These Fun Dance Songs!
Dancing is one of the most natural and joyful ways for children to express themselves while developing important physical and social skills. With our collection of fun dance songs for kids, you now have everything you need to create memorable dance experiences that the whole family can enjoy.
Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, looking for classroom activities, or just trying to burn off some energy on a rainy day, these songs will get kids of all ages moving and grooving. The best part? Many of these tunes are enjoyable for adults too, making family dance time something everyone can look forward to.
So clear some space, crank up the volume, and let the dancing begin! Your kids will thank you for the fun memories (and you might just find yourself joining in too).
What are the benefits of dancing for kids?
Dancing offers numerous benefits for children including improved coordination, better balance, increased physical fitness, enhanced rhythm awareness, boosted self-confidence, and opportunities for creative expression. It also serves as a healthy way to release energy and can improve mood through the release of endorphins.
How can I encourage my shy child to dance?
Start by dancing yourself to show there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Choose songs with simple, guided movements like the “Hokey Pokey” or “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes.” Use props like scarves or stuffed animals that can “dance” with them. Keep the atmosphere pressure-free and praise any participation, no matter how small. Sometimes shy children prefer to dance in smaller settings before joining larger groups.
How long should a kids’ dance party last?
The ideal length depends on the children’s ages. For toddlers and preschoolers, 15-20 minutes of active dancing is usually sufficient before they need a break. Elementary-aged children might enjoy 30-45 minutes, especially if you incorporate different activities and games. Watch for signs of fatigue or waning interest and be ready to transition to a calmer activity when needed.
Sharon Molly is a content creator in lifestyle, fashion, and travel, delivering style-savvy advice and destination insights to inspire confident living. With a background in digital media, she combines aesthetics with practical guidance for modern women on the go.
