There is no shortage of wonderful dance/movement music targeting very young children. Here are some of my favorites:
Hap Palmer: all of Mr. Palmer's cds are great for little ones. A few of his cds have instrumental versions of his songs so you can make the choice of using the recorded words, making up your own words or using no words. These cds are also good for props: rhythm sticks, scarves, shakers, musical instruments etc.
Deanna Low's Danc'Em Series: These cds are created to be used in a dance class format. My children love using these songs. You can find these cds by accessing 4Danc'Em's website:
4dance.com
Georgianna Stewart: Ms. Stewart has wonderful music for young children. I love her "Moving with Mozart" cd and find that the little ones love being exposed to classical music. There are both instrumental and songs with vocal instructions. I also use her 'Circle Time Activities', 'Good Morning Exercises for Kids","Toddleriffic", and 'BabyFace'.
Steven Mitchell/Beth Bogush: 'Pas de Tot' and 'Tots on Parade', are all wonderful instrumental music for little ones.
Steven Mitchell & Gayle Corkery: Mermaids & Butterflies is another excellent instrumental for class.
Lisa Harris: The Magic Wand (instrumental class music) inspiring for all little ones.
Susan Saldor: I find the children love her songs. 'Come and Make a Circle' is a preschool classic.
Bobby Susser: Good movement songs for little ones, especially like 'Wiggle, Wiggle and other exercises'.
Carol Peterson: Another preschool favorite, more singing songs than dancing though.
Dr. Jean: Mostly singing songs, but she has the sweetest southern voice, my students just love singing and moving to her songs. Nothing is rushed so the children can learn the songs and really keep up with them!
Misc others:
Jo Jo's Circus: Fun songs to move to
Dragon Tales: Fun songs to act out
Barney: Always a hit with the little ones
Teletubbies: Can't believe I'll recommend it, but the babies LOVE it.
Al Gilbert's Teddy Bear Series
Disney: Almost anything
Ronno; Castles, Knights and Unicorns
The Wiggles: Big Hit!
Raffi: Some classic songs that the little ones love.
Steve and Greg: very movement based songs. All ages.
Toddlers on Parade (Don't remember the artist - it's a Kimbo cd)
(Speaking of Kimbo, you can find a lot of younger music on their label. I love to use their 'Dance Recital Favorites'.)
Anna Marie Leo: Tap based songs both big and little students.
Piggyback Songs: These songs are tunes that the littles ones are familar with both have different words for different occasions. I use these cds alot for theme based activities.
Okay my mind is exhausted. I'm sure other teachers can add to this list. There is so much out there - go find it and have fun!
J
