The Hokey Pokey Lyrics

A classic participation dance — known as the "Hokey Cokey" in Britain — in which everyone puts a body part "in," "out," and gives it "a shake" before turning themselves around. Best for ages 2–7. It is one of the most effective body-awareness songs available: naming and moving each part (right hand, left foot, whole self) builds the body map, and the in/out/shake/turn sequence trains directional language and the ability to follow multi-step instructions. The big group turn-around adds balance and spatial awareness. Stand in a circle and exaggerate every motion; slow it down for toddlers still learning left from right. For more songs that get children up and moving, see our [movement songs for circle time](/blog/movement-songs-for-circle-time) and [top 20 action songs for toddlers](/blog/top-20-action-songs-for-toddlers).

You put your right hand in,
You put your right hand out,
You put your right hand in,
And you shake it all about.
You do the Hokey Pokey,
And you turn yourself around.
That's what it's all about!

You put your left hand in...
You put your right foot in...
You put your left foot in...
You put your whole self in...