The Clapping Song – Free Printable
The Clapping Song – Free Printable is a fun and simple movement activity designed to help young children develop important skills while having fun. This easy-to-follow song encourages kids to clap in different directions and freeze their bodies, supporting coordination, rhythm, and self-regulation in a playful way.
You can download it at the bottom of the post for free.

BENEFITS OF THE CLAPPING SONG
This short and engaging movement break provides opportunities to practice essential developmental skills in a structured and enjoyable format.
- Bilateral Coordination – Children clap using both hands together in a coordinated manner, moving them to the front, sides, high, and low.
- Following Directions – The lyrics include clear, step-by-step instructions that encourage children to listen carefully and follow through with specific actions.
- Clapping to a Rhythm – With a steady beat of “clap, clap, clap, one-two-three,” the song supports timing, rhythm, and auditory processing.
- Self-Regulation and Impulse Control – The “freeze” moments throughout the song challenge children to stop moving on cue, promoting body control and attention.
- Waiting to Clap Again – The pause after each freeze teaches patience and builds awareness of timing before beginning the next movement.
LYRICS OF THE CLAPPING SONG
Clap in front nice and slow.
Clap in front now here we go.
Clap, clap, clap 1, 2, 3
Now let’s freeze as still as can be.
Clap to the right, nice and slow.
Clap to the right now here we go.
Clap, clap, clap 1, 2, 3
Now let’s freeze as still as can be.
Clap to the left, nice and slow.
Clap to the left now here we go.
Clap, clap, clap 1, 2, 3
Now let’s freeze as still as can be.
Now let’s freeze as still as can be.
Clap up high, nice and slow.
Clap up high now here we go.
Clap, clap, clap 1, 2, 3
Now let’s freeze as still as can be.
Clap down low, nice and slow.
Clap down low now here we go.
Clap, clap, clap 1, 2, 3
Now let’s freeze as still as can be.
Clap all around, nice and slow.
Clap all around now here we go.
Clap, clap, clap, 1, 2, 3
Now let’s freeze as still as can be.
WHEN TO USE THE MOVEMENT BREAK
This movement song can be used in a variety of classroom and home settings. The printable helps you to pre-teach the skills in the video or use it screen free! It is a simple and effective way to support motor development and focus. It is especially helpful for:
- Practicing listening and following directions
- Indoor recess or movement breaks during bad weather
- Quick brain breaks between academic tasks
- Transition times between activities
- Group circle time or morning meetings
WATCH THE VIDEO NOW
MORE FUN STUFF
For more movement and self-regulation resources, check out these additional posts:
- Self-Control Song
- Calming Coloring Pages
- Self-Regulation Song
- Calming Down the Classroom
- Morning Meeting Song
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE CLAPPING SONG PRINTABLE HERE
