If you’ve ever wrapped up a preschool storytime and thought, they just needed to MOVE, you’re definitely not alone.

Young children aren’t wired to sit still for long periods of time. They learn through movement, rhythm, repetition, and play. Sometimes what they really need is permission to wiggle, spin, jump, and just be kids.

That’s exactly the idea behind Wiggles & Giggles.

This 45-minute music and movement program is designed for preschoolers (ages 2–5) and their caregivers. It creates a space where movement is not only allowed—it’s encouraged. Kids get to build motor skills. They practice listening. They connect with their caregivers. All of this happens while having an absolute blast at the library.

And the best part? You probably already have everything you need to run it.

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Why Movement Programs Matter

Movement isn’t just about burning energy (although… that’s a bonus).

It plays a huge role in early childhood development. When children dance, stretch, and move to music, they’re also:

• Building gross motor skills and coordination
• Practicing listening and following directions
• Developing rhythm and early literacy connections
• Expressing themselves and building confidence
• Strengthening bonds with their caregivers

Programs like this align beautifully with early literacy practices—especially playing, singing, and talking—all of which support language development in a natural, engaging way.

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Program Overview

Program Name: Wiggles & Giggles
Audience: Preschoolers (ages 2–5) with caregivers
Length: 45 minutes
Space Needed: Open area with room to move

This program works well in a meeting room, activity space, or even a cleared storytime area.

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How It Flows

One of the keys to success is keeping a predictable structure while alternating between high-energy movement and calmer moments. That balance helps kids stay engaged without becoming overwhelmed.

Welcome & Free Dance (5–10 minutes)

Start the vibe before the program even “officially” begins.

Play upbeat music as families enter and let kids explore the space freely. No rules, no structure—just movement.

Adding a basket of simple props like scarves, ribbons, or shaker eggs can help hesitant kids jump in more comfortably.

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Introduction & Stretching (5 minutes)

Bring everyone together and introduce a simple theme—something playful and easy to imagine:

• Animals
• Under the Sea
• Outer Space
• Jungle Adventure

Guide kids through a few stretches tied to the theme (reach like a giraffe, stretch like an airplane, etc.). Encourage caregivers to join in—this makes a huge difference in participation.

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Action Songs (10–15 minutes)

This is where the energy really kicks in.

Choose familiar, movement-heavy songs that get kids clapping, jumping, and spinning. Favorites like:

• If You’re Happy and You Know It
• Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes
• The Hokey Pokey
• Shake Your Sillies Out
• Freeze Dance

These songs build coordination, rhythm, and listening skills—all while feeling like pure fun.

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Interactive Group Movement (10 minutes)

Now lean into imagination.

Guide kids through simple movements like hopping like frogs, flying like birds, or leaping like astronauts. This is a great moment for creativity, connection, and laughter.

Caregivers participating alongside their children helps make this even more meaningful.

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Cool Down (5 minutes)

After all that movement, it’s time to slow things down.

Play calming music and bring everyone into a seated circle. Gentle songs like Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star or Row, Row, Row Your Boat help children transition and practice self-regulation.

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Goodbye Song (5 minutes)

End with a consistent, predictable closing.

A simple goodbye song helps signal that the program is over while keeping the tone warm and positive.

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What You’ll Need

This is one of those programs that feels big—but is actually super low-prep.

Most libraries already have:

• A speaker and music playlist
• Scarves, ribbons, or bean bags
• Shaker eggs or rhythm instruments
• A parachute (optional but fun!)
• Bubbles for a magical ending moment

Optional additions like floor mats or a water station can enhance the experience, but they’re not required.

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Setting Up the Space

Keep it simple and safe:

• Clear a large open area for movement
• Keep props easily accessible
• Place seating along the edges for caregivers and a place to put bags and coats
• Make sure pathways stay clear

The goal is to create a space where kids feel free to move confidently.

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Making It Work for Your Community

Wiggles & Giggles is incredibly flexible.

You can:

• Run it as a standalone program
• Add it as a monthly offering
• Pair it with storytime (or with a fun sensory program like THIS)

You can also scale it up or down depending on your space, staffing, and attendance.

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Final Thoughts

Sometimes the most impactful programs aren’t the most complicated ones.

Wiggles & Giggles is simple, fun, and incredibly effective. It gives kids a chance to move, laugh, and connect—and it shows caregivers that the library is a place where their children are truly welcome to be themselves.

I think we could all use a little more wiggling and giggling in our libraries.

If you try this program, I’d love to hear how it goes—what songs worked, what your kids loved, and what you’d tweak next time 

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