Looking for a way to blend energy, learning, and fun this summer?
Music and movement activities are a perfect match for preschoolers and toddlers. They support brain development, boost motor skills, and—best of all—bring smiles and giggles. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, adding rhythm and motion to your summer days can help little learners thrive.
This post highlights playful summer songs and movement activities you can do anywhere—backyard, classroom, living room, or park. Each idea builds foundational skills while keeping things light, fun, and flexible.
And yes—our favorite sticky song makes an appearance!
1. The Magic of Music + Movement in Early Learning
When children sing and move at the same time, they’re doing more than just having fun. They’re:
- Strengthening body awareness
- Developing coordination
- Building early language and literacy skills
- Practicing listening and self-regulation
Want to learn more? Check out Music and Movement for Kindergarten Readiness to dive deeper into the benefits.
2. Icky Sticky Sticky Bubble Gum
If you’ve ever watched kids play along to this classic chant, you know it’s irresistible. Our version of “Icky Sticky Sticky Bubble Gum” builds on the original by incorporating:
- Body part identification
- Crossing the midline
- Beginning sound recognition
- Fine and gross motor movement
Sing the song while gently “sticking” hands to different body parts. Then have children name each body part, identify the first sound, or act out a silly movement.
Skills Targeted: Phonemic awareness, body awareness, fine motor, gross motor, rhythm
🎁 Grab the FREE Song Poster and Visuals to use at circle time, therapy sessions, or outdoor play.
3. Summer Movement Songs to Try
Here are some favorite songs that combine rhythm, repetition, and full-body engagement:
- The Ants Go Marching – Great for steady beat, marching, and counting
- Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes – Classic for body awareness and tempo changes
- Shake Your Sillies Out – A go-to song for releasing energy while practicing self-control
- If You’re Happy and You Know It – Add your own silly verses for fun language building
- Going on a Bear Hunt – Combine story, song, and pretend play (link to Bear Hunt post!)
Tips:
- Add scarves, ribbons, or homemade shakers for extra engagement.
- Sing slowly and clearly to support language processing.
- Let kids take the lead with their own verses or movements.
4. Movement Stations for Home or School
Set up small “movement stations” with different activities to rotate through:
- Sticky Station: Play “Icky Sticky Sticky Bubble Gum”
- Marching Station: Sing and march to “The Ants Go Marching”
- Freeze Dance Station: Use any favorite song to practice starting and stopping
- Instrument Station: Shake, tap, and explore sound with homemade or toy instruments
Rotate every few minutes or let kids explore freely.
Skills Targeted: Self-regulation, gross motor, rhythm, sequencing, cooperation
5. Movement + Music for Body Awareness
Songs that include movement cues help children become more aware of their bodies and how they move in space.
Try songs like:
- Tony Chestnut (toe, knee, chest, nut… get it?)
- Move Like the Animals – Create verses where children hop like frogs, crawl like bears, or stretch like cats
- Yoga Songs – Add simple poses to familiar tunes
Read Using Music to Build Body Awareness and Motor Skills for more inspiration.
6. Bonus: Use Music to Transition Through the Day
Music and songs can ease transitions and routines during the summer months:
- Clean-Up Songs – Help signal a shift in activity
- Quiet Time Tunes – Slow rhythms to calm and refocus
- Lining Up Songs – Practice patience and listening
Create your own playlist with your go-to songs for different times of day. Repetition and routine bring a sense of safety and predictability for young children.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Playful and Repetitive
Repetition is key for preschoolers. When you sing the same songs throughout the summer, you build confidence, memory, and meaningful connections.
So whether you’re clapping, marching, or getting delightfully stuck to your elbow—lean into the rhythm, the giggles, and the learning.
🎶 Ready to start? Grab the free Icky Sticky Sticky Bubble Gum Song Poster and Visuals and explore Music and Movement for Kindergarten Readiness to go deeper.
You’ll also love Using Music to Build Body Awareness and Motor Skills for even more practical tips.
