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Step 1
Pick the right time, which is really any time. Breaking out into song and dance is not just for Broadway musicals—it’s especially helpful during a moment of tension. Turn on some music and see what shakes out. Or preempt the pre-dinner whining with an ’80s moonwalk demonstration. Spontaneous dancing feels great, but don’t discount a little planning. Once you get in the habit of turning the music on, the dancing will be second nature.
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Step 2
Pick a place—or let it pick itself. There’s no need to clear out the living room furniture. Sometimes a small kitchen can be even more fun. (Perhaps you remember the pre-child years of crowded all-night dance clubs.)
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Step 3
Pick the tunes. Children love upbeat songs with simple lyrics they can follow. A good litmus test for children’s dance songs: Can they jump to it? Can they easily clap to it? Would you want your child to recite the lyrics to your mother-in-law?
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Step 4
Act like a kid, which means check your self-consciousness at the door. Kids love to see their parents act silly.
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Step 5
Teach your child some moves. Dance like a monkey. Wiggle like a snake. Swim like a fish. Shake your head and booty.
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Step 6
Learn some moves from them. If they like to jump straight up and down for an entire chorus, follow their lead. They will love being in charge.








