The Best Songs To Get Toddlers Moving
It’s great for encouraging her co-ordination and understanding how her body works, but toddler dancing doesn’t necessarily mean Nelly The Elephant/Dora The Explorer/Wheels On The Bus over and over… and over. Check out the other (grown up friendly) tunes that’ll get your child moving.
Alex Davies
Happy – Pharrell Williams
Ah, Pharrell. This featured on the Despicable Me 2 soundtrack and automatically puts everyone (toddlers included) in a good mood.
Call Me Maybe – Carly Rae Jepsen
Walking that fine line between irritating and oh-so amazing, this hit by the Canadian singer is feel-good pop at its catchiest.
What Makes You Beautiful – One Direction
The chorus of 1D’s debut single, which sold more than 150,000 copies in its first week, is perfect for jumping around the living room with your toddler.
Let It Go – Idina Menzel
One of the best Disney films ever, Frozen’s soundtrack includes the epic Let It Go. Cue lots of toddler spinning and singing a la Elsa.
Drunken Sailor
Not the most obvious choice, but this sea shanty gets one M&B-er’s niece up dancing more than anything. Must be the repetition – and pirate fancy dress potential.
I Like To Move It – Sacha Baron Cohen
Originally recorded by US duo Reel 2 Real, this was brought into the toddler-sphere by the film Madagascar, where it was sung by British comedian Sacha Baron Cohen as lord lemur King Julien.
Gangnam Style – PSY
With a dance routine toddlers love to copy, this 2012 hit took the world by storm.
You Can Get It If You Really Want – Jimmy Cliff
Summertime. BBQ. Garden. The ideal soundtrack for a chilled family day.
Yellow Submarine – The Beatles
This number one classic has been keeping kids entertained for nearly 50 years. A real crowd pleaser on a car journey – although perhaps not on repeat.
Get Lucky – Daft Punk
A brilliant jumping-on-the-sofa anthem and another win for Pharrell who sings on the track.
I Love It – Icona Pop
Swedish duo Icona Pop released this in the UK last year with its infectious ‘I don’t care – I love it!’
I Need A Dollar – Aloe Blacc
This laid-back tune is a favourite with M&B deputy editor Lara’s two boys.
Firework – Katy Perry
In fact, most songs by her. Including Roar. Be prepared for everyone going (and probably failing…) for those big notes.
Dancing Queen – Abba
A great excuse to dance around the kitchen with your toddler. Child standing on your toes optional.
I’m A Believer – The Monkees
Another 60s’ hit, this sold more than 10 million copies worldwide.
Three Little Birds – Bob Marley
Yep, we’re just singing them all now. ‘Cos every little thing’s gonna be alright *happy head sway*.
Surfin’ USA – Beach Boys
Anything that comes with an obligatory surfing dance gets a massive thumbs up.
La La La – Naughty Boy ft. Sam Smith
In a chat with M&B, Zoe Ball revealed this was the ultimate song to get her toddler Nell up and dancing.
