“Shake Your Sillies Out”

Songs like “Shake Your Sillies Out” and “If You’re Happy and You Know It” can help build toddlers’ emotional vocabulary and give them positive ways to express their feelings.

Don't worry about sticking to the popular verses—you can make up new verses as you notice different feelings your toddlers are experiencing.

Sing and dance out feelings at circle time, as part of a hello or goodbye ritual, or go outdoors where children can express themselves in a more lively and energetic way. You can follow this routine to start you off:

Go all out as you enjoy action songs with your toddler group.
Bring your toddlers down gently with a calming verse such as “Yawn your sleepys out.” or “If you’re sleepy and you know it, close your eyes.”
Show toddlers how to stretch up high and sway like trees in the wind.
Then have them lie on their tummies like turtles and hide in their shells.
Finally, whisper in song, If you’re sleepy and you know it, go to sleep.

You can find a great selection of songs on the Internet. Have fun creating new lyrics together and encourage older toddlers to make up words or actions to go along with the new songs.