Dance and movement are critical to children developing motor skills and keeping fit. Here are four apps that provide enjoyable dance and movement programmes. – Kiran Balimane
GoNoodle
Platform: Android, iOS
Age group: 6-12 years
GoNoodle offers a collection of dance and movement videos, interactive activities, and educational games. The dance routines, fitness, and mindfulness exercises promote physical activity and improve children’s balance and focus. Special features include themed movement challenges, calming mindfulness sessions, and interactive brain-break activities for children to re-energize between study sessions. While many of the features are available free of charge, an optional subscription unlocks additional exclusive content.
Just Dance Now
Platform: Android, iOS
Age group: 6 years and above
Just Dance Now brings Ubisoft’s globally popular dance game franchise to mobile devices, making high-energy dance sessions accessible anytime, anywhere. This app transforms fitness into an interactive experience with children invited to follow choreographed dance routines set to popular songs. It features an extensive catalog of songs across different genres, allowing users to dance solo or in multiplayer mode with friends and family. The app’s motion-tracking technology also uses a smartphone’s sensors to rate dance moves in real-time. Unlike traditional fitness apps, Just Dance Now gamifies exercise, rewarding users with points and achievements for effort and performance. Users can access a selection of free songs, with additional tracks and exclusive features available through a subscription.
Nike Training Club (Youth Section)
Platform: Android, iOS
Age group: 12 years and above
This premier brand’s fitness app offers a wide range of professional workout routines, including a section customized for teens. The app features expertly designed workout programs, ranging from strength training and high-intensity interval training to yoga and stretching exercises. It provides step-by-step video demonstrations. A standout feature is its ability to personalize workout recommendations based on the user’s goals, fitness level, and available equipment. Unlike many fitness apps that require paid membership, Nike Training Club is free of charge. It is also ads-free, ensuring an uninterrupted and focused workout experience.
Cosmic Kids Yoga
Platform: Android, iOS, YouTube
Age group: 3–10 years
Cosmic Kids Yoga takes a creative approach towards exercise by combining engaging storytelling with yoga movements. The app and YouTube channel feature yoga exercises where children follow instructor Jaime Amor as she narrates exciting tales, ranging from classic fairy tales to original adventures. Each session incorporates yoga postures that improve flexibility, strength, and balance while promoting relaxation and mindfulness. It also includes breathing exercises, guided meditation, and focus-enhancing techniques, for children to manage stress. While the YouTube channel provides free content, the app’s paid subscription option unlocks exclusive content, including specially curated yoga courses and bedtime relaxation sessions.
