Swingset Mamas' 6 Tips for Throwing a Rockin' Family Dance Party
Sometimes family life can get so hectic, the best thing to do is to stop the insanity, crank up your favorites tunes and bust a move, the sillier the better! Dancing is a great way to relieve stress, get exercise, and it's a fun way to spend quality time with the kids. We checked in with rockin' moms Lizzie Swan and Marlowe Bechmann of the award-winning Swingset Mamas, who shared their tips for getting the whole family up and moving to the music.
- Be spontaneous! "We have informal, spontaneous dance parties ALL THE TIME! Whether it's a rainy day, or there is a block of time without scheduled activities, dance parties are one of the best ways to channel energy and connect as a family!"
- Show the kids your moves. "Get out your favorite music from high school and college. Your children will see your enthusiasm for music that you love and join in. And don't stop dancing as your kids get older. Being comfortable with creative expression, music and movement will be a lifelong gift that you can enjoy together as a family."
- Set the party mood. "If you're inviting family and friends, make it fun and give out dress-up props like hats, wigs, glasses and musical instruments like shakers and drums. Disco balls and lights are also a big plus! And it's fun to plan a theme like '70's disco, salsa, rock and roll, or '80s hits!"
- Let the kids help pick the tunes. "Get the kids involved in making a dance party play list. Include some current pop music your kids listen to, and also some inter-generational dance songs that parents and grandparents know. It's always more fun if the grown-ups get in the spirit and show their moves!"
- Make a global playlist. "As teachers and musical moms, we have seen how all styles of music inspire children to uninhibitedly start moving with the beat. It's also a simple way to introduce kids to different cultures and styles of music."
- Be silly and have fun! "Share your favorite funny dance moves (like Lizzie's daughter, who's really into 'the robot' or Marlowe's family, who loves 'the lawn sprinkler.') Sharing music and dance together is an amazing way for families to feel connected."
The Swingset Mama's latest CD Mamamorphosis received a 2011 Parents Choice Award. For more about their music, visit them at Swingset Mamas and on Facebook.
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