Fun Idioms and Songs for Kids (And Why They’re an Awesome Learning Tool)

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I’m not your average teacher—more like the fun aunt who shows up with glitter glue, flashcards, and a penchant for silly phrases. As someone who’s taught English across different states (and continents!), I’ve found that idioms and songs have this magical way of sticking in kids’ minds—long after you’ve packed away the textbooks. Why? Because they blend language, culture, humor, and a dash of imagination all in one.

Below, I’ll share some of my favorite idioms and songs for kids, along with tips on how to make them interactive and actually fun. So let’s jump right in, shall we?

Why Idioms and Songs Are Language Gold

Before we dive into the specific idioms and tunes, here’s why they’re worth your time:

They Boost Vocabulary: Kids hear these fun phrases and pick up new words without even realizing they’re learning.
They Build Cultural Awareness: Idioms reflect a culture’s sense of humor and history, making kids feel more connected to the language’s roots.
They’re Catchy: Let’s face it—kids remember songs better than lesson plans. (So do adults, if we’re being honest!)
They Encourage Participation: Songs get kids moving, singing, and often giggling. Idioms spark questions like, “Why horses?!”—which is a perfect teachable moment.

Favorite Idioms for Kids (and What They Mean!)

“It’s Raining Cats and Dogs!”

Meaning: It’s raining really hard.
Why Kids Love It: Imagining kittens and puppies falling from the sky is both hilarious and memorable.

“Break the Ice.”

Meaning: Do something to make people feel comfortable or start a conversation.
Teaching Tip: Try a quick game or silly dance move whenever your group feels shy—it’s a literal “ice breaker.”

“Spill the Beans.”

Meaning: Reveal a secret.
Fun Twist: Use real beans in a jar. When someone “spills the beans,” they open the jar and the beans go everywhere—instant comedic effect.

“A Piece of Cake.”

Meaning: Something that’s super easy to do.
Extra Fun: If you have time (and a sweet tooth), bake an actual cake together. Delicious learning!

“Hold Your Horses!”

Meaning: Be patient or slow down.
Why Kids Love It: This idiom is perfect for those high-energy moments. Whenever someone’s rushing, a quick “Hold your horses!” can spark laughs (and maybe slow them down).

Songs That Teach, Entertain, and Get Kids Moving

“The Wheels on the Bus”

What It Teaches: Actions like “go round and round” or “beep beep beep.”
Pro Tip: Add your own verses—“The dog on the bus goes woof woof woof!”—to keep it fresh.

“If You’re Happy and You Know It”

What It Teaches: Emotions and actions.
Make It Zany: Switch up the actions: “If you’re sleepy and you know it, give a yawn.” Great for winding down.

“Row, Row, Row Your Boat”

What It Teaches: Cooperation and rhythm.
Fun Variation: Turn it into a round (where one group starts singing a line before the other finishes). Kids love the layered sound!

“Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes”

What It Teaches: Body parts—and it’s a mini-workout!
Energy Booster: Sing it faster each time, and watch kids dissolve into giggles.

“Old MacDonald Had a Farm”

What It Teaches: Animal names and sounds.
Silly Factor: Let kids invent their own animals. Llamas, dinosaurs, unicorns—who says Old MacDonald’s farm can’t be magical?

Making Idioms and Songs Interactive

Act It Out

For idioms like “Hold your horses,” create a quick skit where someone is running around until someone else yells, “Hold your horses!”—cue dramatic freeze.

Change the Lyrics

Encourage kids to create their own verses for “The Wheels on the Bus” or “Old MacDonald.” It sparks creativity and ownership of learning.

Draw It

After teaching an idiom, have kids draw what they think it literally means (like cats and dogs falling from the sky). Hang their artwork around the room or fridge.

Combine Idioms + Songs

Challenge kids to slip an idiom into the lyrics of a song: “If you’re happy and you know it, spill the beans!” Might be goofy, but it helps them remember the phrase.

A Personal Note from Emily

I’ll never forget the first time my niece used “It’s raining cats and dogs” without missing a beat. We were caught in a summer downpour, and she just belted it out while we dashed to the car, giggling the whole time. That’s the magic of idioms—they turn everyday moments into memorable language lessons. The same goes for songs. My nephew requests “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” every night before bed, which has turned into a whole bedtime tradition featuring stuffed animals as rowdy passengers.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or the designated “fun cousin,” these idioms and songs can inject language lessons into your routine without feeling like a chore. They encourage creativity, spark curiosity, and—best of all—are just plain fun.

Final Thoughts

English idioms and kid-friendly songs aren’t just educational tools; they’re memory-makers and conversation starters. The next time you’re looking for a quick way to break the ice or shake up a monotonous afternoon, toss in an idiom or burst into a silly tune. Watch the kids’ eyes light up, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming along long after bedtime.

Got any hilarious idiom mix-ups or new song verses your kiddos invented? I’d love to hear them! Drop a comment or send me a note—sharing fun anecdotes makes our little learning community even richer.

PS: If you try these out, brace yourself for some seriously cute “spilling the beans” mishaps and “piece of cake” celebrations. And if you catch yourself singing “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” in the grocery store, don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Author Bio

Xadia Cashif: She has been analyst, beauty expert, mom of 2, cook, teacher, content writer, and a reviewer with a passion to have a smart home with her husband. She often tests new things and gadgets that come into the market with the help of her team to review items. When she’s not at her computer, you can find her at her kitchen, busy with 2 kids, or maybe on Pinterest @xadiacashif where she likes to share about her lifestyle and work. Alternatively, try her email at xadcash@gmail.com, and she’ll probably shoot you back a list of her favorite and latest gizmos.