Throwing a children’s party and want to make it a hit? Music is your secret weapon! As a children’s entertainer with years of experience rocking parties week after week, I know exactly what tunes will get kids of all ages moving and grooving. Forget awkward silences and watch your party come alive with the right Childrens Party Dance Songs.
Creating the perfect playlist is more than just hitting play on any kids’ music compilation. It’s about choosing songs that are not only fun but also familiar and encourage participation. Kids love to dance to songs they already know the moves to, and that’s where the magic happens.
Here’s a list of absolute must-have childrens party dance songs that are guaranteed to fill your dance floor:
- Action & Movement Songs: These are classics for a reason! They get everyone involved and are super easy to follow.
- Fast Food Song: Simple actions and catchy lyrics make this a winner.
- Finger Song: Great for younger kids, focusing on finger movements and coordination.
- Purple People Eater: A novelty song with fun, monster-themed moves.
- Cotton Eye Joe: A high-energy country dance that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- 5,6,7,8: Line dance classic, perfect for teaching simple steps.
- Witch Doctor (Alvin & The Chipmunks Version): The Chipmunks’ fast-paced version adds extra fun.
- Macarena: Iconic and universally known, even adults will join in!
- Hoedown Throwdown: Featured in Hannah Montana, this song has fun, country-style dance moves.
- Superman (It’s Not Easy): Action-packed superhero themed dance.
- Hokey Cokey (Cockney Version): The traditional, energetic version – avoid slower, less engaging alternatives.
- Popcorn: Fun, quirky song with silly dance moves.
- Asereje (The Ketchup Song): Catchy Spanish tune with easy-to-learn hand motions.
- Cha Cha Slide: Interactive dance song with clear instructions, always gets kids moving.
- Reach: S Club 7 classic, positive and uplifting with simple actions.
- Time Warp: From The Rocky Horror Picture Show, a timeless dance floor filler for all ages.
- Follow the Leader: Classic action song where kids copy the leader’s moves.
- High School Musical & Hannah Montana Hits: Popular tracks from these franchises are guaranteed to be a hit with many children.
Remember to check out YouTube for dance move tutorials for these songs. Observing how kids react and adapt the moves at different parties is also a great way to refine your understanding and playlist over time.
Beyond just dancing, interactive games are essential for a truly memorable children’s party. Here are a few game ideas to complement your dance playlist and keep the energy high:
- Traffic Lights: A simple reaction game. Green means go, red means stop, spin at “roundabouts,” and lie down and pretend to snore at “sleeping policemen.”
- Corners: Use colored balloon hats in four corners. Kids run to a corner when the music stops, and you eliminate a corner by picking a matching colored beanbag.
- Jousting: Balloon hat jousting is hilarious! Two kids with balloon hats and large balloons try to knock each other’s hats off while galloping past each other. Involve a “fair maiden” for extra fun.
- Tails: Tie “tails” (ikea pillow socks or detachable animal tails work great) to two players and have them try to grab each other’s tail without falling over, team-based cheering encouraged!
- Rockstar Mum & Dad: Get the parents involved! Kids nominate who has the coolest parents, then mums and dads battle it out with rockstar moves to songs like “So What” or “Rockstar,” judged by an X Factor style panel of kids. Winner gets an inflatable guitar for their child.
- Blink Murder: For a spooky twist, play “Blink Murder” in a darkened room with haunted music. One murderer, one detective, and the murderer eliminates players by blinking at them.
- Mummy Game: Toilet paper mummy wrapping race to the tune of “Yakety Sax” – always a chaotic and funny game.
This is just the beginning! There are countless games and variations you can invent. The key is to be adaptable and choose activities and dances that suit the specific group of children at your party. Observe their energy levels and preferences, and don’t be afraid to adjust your plan on the fly. With the right childrens party dance songs and games, you’re sure to create an unforgettable celebration!
