5 Books to Get Kids Moving During Story Time

Sometimes, storytime can be the most relaxing time of the day. The melodic voice of a rhythmic book can be very soothing. Other times, we aren’t looking for quiet and want to get those kids up and moving around! Here are my go-to books to get the kids moving and keep them engaged with the story!

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Stomp Written by Uncle Ian Aurora, Illustrated by Natalia Moore

Stomp is a joyful picture book implores “everybody [to get] up! It’s time to get moving!” With easy-to-follow directions and bright-colored illustrations, readers will be inspired to do just that! This is an excellent book if you notice people are sluggish in your story time. I love the diverse ethnic representation in the illustrations. Stomp will make you want to get up and show off your moves! 

Ages 3+

Barnyard Dance! by Sandra Boynton

“Stomp your feet! Clap your hands! Everybody ready for a barnyard dance!” Join your favorite barnyard animals in this lively board book and dance along! The animals’ facial features are so expressive and comical, and the rhythm of the verses may transport you to a good ol’ fashion square dance!

If you enjoy this Sandra Boynton dance along, be sure to read Dinosaur Dance! Please read my review of that here.

Ages 0+

Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina

Caps for Sale has been beloved since it was first published in 1940.  This excellent picture book tells the tale of mischievous monkeys who steal peddlers’ caps while he takes a nap. Kids enjoy partaking in reciting the repetitive language and the endearing naughty monkeys.

To incorporate movement while reading this story, Caps for Sale invites children to pretend to be monkeys. Invite participants to mimic the monkeys, and when the monkeys jump and say “tzt tzt tzt,” the children can do that too.   

Ages 2+

My First Yoga ABC by Teresa Power and Illustrated by Kathleen Rietz

My First Yoga ABC has a pose for each letter of the alphabet. Readers will enjoy the easy-to-follow illustrations of a child performing the pose. Yoga in the classroom can improve students’ stress management and classroom behavior.  I have seen my daughter opening the book and trying different yoga positions several times. This is an excellent book for beginning readers with word-to-picture recognition.

Ages 3+

From Head to Toe by Eric Carle

I have so much fun reading Eric Carle’s  From Head to Toe! From Head to Toe is a fun, quick read that will get kids moving! Readers will gravitate to the vibrant tissue paper animal collages in the picture book. The repetitive language makes the book accessible and engaging for the youngest readers.

Ages 1+

Have fun!

I hope you enjoy these books as much as I have!

Thank you & Happy Reading!

XO, Sheryl