Fun Fall Songs for Circle Time (Part 2) – Halloween Music & Movement Activities

As Halloween approaches, Part 2 of my 5 Fun Fall Songs for Circle Time will focus on fun Halloween music and movement activities. These activities are not only entertaining but also packed with developmental benefits for kids!

Why Music and Movement is Great for Kids

Music and movement for kids have so many benefits! Using music in your circle time supports child development in multiple ways:

• Self-Regulation: An upbeat freeze dance works on self-regulation skills, as children practice listening to the music and controlling their movements when the music stops.

• Energy Release: Kids get to burn off energy, preparing them for tasks requiring focus.

• Creative Expression: Music and movement experiences stretch children’s imaginations, allowing them to move like different animals or Halloween characters.

• Language and Learning Benefits: Learning through interactive action songs, promotes language development and memory.

  
  

So, adding some Halloween-themed music and movement to your circle time this October is not only fun but also helps children in all these ways and more!

Halloween Music and Movement Activity Ideas for Circle Time

1. Monster Freeze Dance

This twist on the classic freeze dance adds an exciting visual element! Use monster pictures (which you can find in my shop) and display them around the room. When the music stops, children must find a monster picture and freeze in the same pose.

Alternatively, you can hold up a new monster picture each time the music stops, and children have to imitate that pose. It’s a fun, silly way to practice motor skills and creativity!

2. Monster Boogie by Laurie Berkner

I absolutely love using this song for Halloween! The kids enjoy acting like a big, scary monster, and then dancing along with the playful, upbeat Monster Boogie. The contrast in the music keeps children engaged, making it a hit every year.

3. Halloween is Almost Here

This is a perfect song for younger kids! It’s set to the familiar, not-so-spooky tune of “London Bridge” and is simple and repetitive, which is great for little ones.

You can also add in movements as you sing or even let the kids offer movement ideas. Pairing this song with Halloween Movement Flashcards (available in my shop) adds a visual element that makes the song even more interactive.

4. In the Pumpkin Patch

I learned this song a few years ago called "This is Big Big Big" and adapted it to suit a pumpkin patch theme. As you sing, pretend you’re picking different pumpkins! You can incorporate actions to explore opposites (big vs. small, short vs. tall) and help children understand the words they’re singing.

This activity is perfect for imaginative play and language development.

5. Singable Story: If You’re Spooky and You Know It

Singable stories are a favorite in my music sessions, and If You’re Spooky and You Know It is no exception! It uses the familiar tune of “If You’re Happy and You Know It” and encourages kids to join in with movements.

Books like this one are a wonderful way to combine literacy, music, and movement into one engaging circle time activity.

I hope these Halloween activities help you make the most of your autumn circle time! 🎃 For a full bundle of creative music activities, crafts, and circle time ideas, check out my Fall Creative Play Bundle!

Warmly,

Christine