Why Action Songs Support Early Literacy, Motor Skills and Social-Emotional Learning
One of the first lessons I learned when I became a children’s music performer was how it’s important to play music with children instead of at them. For most young children, music is not a passive experience. They engage with songs through movement, expression and play. It can be a very powerful tool for learning.
I’ve learned through experience that action songs are the quickest way to light up a room. These are songs with movements built right in, from full body movements that involve balance and coordination, such as jumping or spinning, to precise hand motions such as pointing or opening/closing a fist.
Why Music and Movement Belong Together
Pairing movements with song connects everything together: ears, eyes, body and imagination. Instead of music being a passive experience, children can participate immediately in the song without needing special skills or an instrument.
Action songs are inclusive and readily adaptable for mixed ages, different abilities and all kinds of learning styles.
Building Vocabulary and Confidence
Action songs help children learn language by introducing them to rhythms, patterns and repetition. Movements anchor the meaning. For instance, a child pointing to their head while also singing the word “head” is integrating the vocabulary in a deep way.
Bringing action songs into a group setting creates a place for magic to happen, whether it’s a classroom, a play group or a home environment. Humans sync up when they sing and move together. We laugh, imitate and respond to each other. We learn to anticipate what comes next. Kids learn how it feels to be a part of a community, even if it only lasts for the duration of the song.
Singing action songs with children creates genuine connection. The songs often become little traditions that children remember for their whole lives.
A Lasting Impact on Early Literacy
The songs I share may seem simple, but they do big things. Action songs have a ripple effect on the developmental process and are stepping stones toward literacy. They are threads that connect children to themselves and others, helping them to grow and learn in ways that last long after the songs end.
Start exploring Molly Whuppie’s interactive action songs—like Open, Shut Them, Five Green and Speckled Frogs and more—today on Epic!
About the Author
Known for her nostalgic folk music for children, Molly Whuppie has built a community of over 2 million followers across social media. Her music reaches audiences worldwide while staying rooted in the joy of sharing songs from her home on Prince Edward Island, Canada. She has released two full length albums of original and traditional children’s music.
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“The simplicity of my approach is intentional. I want listeners to feel like they are right there in the room with me, with no barriers or distractions.”
“Children are hardwired to respond to music. You don’t need a lot of bells and whistles to earn their attention: I believe you just need to be kind and sing good songs.”
“Music can be a safe space for kids to explore, express and navigate big feelings.”
Frequently Asked Questions
▶ What are action songs for kids?
Action songs are songs with actions for kids. The lyrics include movements like jumping, clapping, pointing or making simple hand motions so children can participate right away.
▶ Why are movement songs for kids good for learning?
Music and movement for kids combines listening, watching and doing. That multi-sensory mix helps kids remember concepts, follow patterns, and stay engaged.
▶ How do action songs support language development?
Action songs are excellent language development songs because they use rhythm, repetition and clear vocabulary. Movements “anchor” meaning (like pointing to a head while singing “head”).
▶ Are action songs good for preschoolers and toddlers?
Yes, preschool action songs and toddler-friendly action songs support attention, imitation, turn-taking and confidence. You can simplify movements for younger kids or add challenges for older kids.
▶ What skills do action songs build besides language?
They build gross motor skills (jumping, spinning, balance), fine motor skills (finger plays, pointing, opening/closing fists), coordination and social connection in groups.
▶ How can teachers use circle time songs with actions?
Use circle time songs with actions as a consistent routine: a hello song, a movement break, or a transition song. Repeating the same song for a week helps kids learn the pattern and participate more fully.
▶ How do action songs connect to early literacy?
Action songs support early literacy activities by strengthening listening skills, sequencing (anticipating what comes next), rhythm awareness, and vocabulary — foundations that help prepare kids for reading.
