Recently I taught a webinar about Interactive Storytimes in School Settings, and one of the things we talked about was the need for movement songs in which the children can stay seated. This is crucial for teachers and librarians in settings with many students packed closely together in a tight space. Sitting movement songs are also useful in traditional “lapsit” storytimes for babies who cannot yet walk, children seated at desks, or in wheelchairs.

A common misconception is that children need to be moving their entire body during a movement song, but this is not true! Moving from the waist-up works just as well, and sometimes focuses some students even more than full-body movement activities.

Traditionally called “Fingerplays,” sitting movement songs have long been staples in early childhood classes and storytimes. I prefer the umbrella term “Action Songs” because often the movements are not limited to the hands and fingers, but expand to gross motor movements such as reaching, rolling, clapping, patting, etc.

Sometimes teachers and librarians don’t feel comfortable singing the melody to these songs (totally ok!) Check out these wonderful songs and/or videos by some of the best children’s artists out there! Press play and have fun!

The Green Grass Grows All Around by La La Librarian

Riding In My Car by La La Librarian

Move to the Beat by Stephanie Leavell

Beethoven’s Five Finger Play by Jim Gill

Hands Are for Clapping by Jim Gill

One from the Left (A Finger Play) by Jim Gill

Two For Tea by Jim Gill

Fireflies by Laurie Berkner

Moon Moon Moon by Laurie Berkner

These Are My Glasses by Laurie Berkner

Mosquito Burrito by Roger Day

Arriba Means Up! By Dan + Claudia Zanes