Saint Patrick’s Day is coming up and it brings to mind Ireland and it’s fairy folklore. Old Irish folk tradition included a strong belief in the fairy world and that fairies were to be both feared and respected. For example, if you tried to catch a leprechaun for it’s gold be prepared to have mischief and bad luck follow. Or you could just offer the leprechaun a bed for the night and he’d gladly give you gold in return.
If you have a child like mine that LOVES fairies, you know that fairies are less feared and more revered today. And TinkerBell and her friends are at the top of the list. So why not embrace their love of fairies. Indulge it, and introduce them to fairy inspired songs where your little ones can let out their inner fairy to dance and play along with instruments.
I’ve put together a list on Spotify for you to play that’s at the bottom of this page. But before that why not check out some highlights from the playlist along with videos that may give you some ideas of what to do with your little fairies. Put on your fairy wings, tutus and fairy dust – and have fun!
Waltz With Dolls and Fairies – The Wiggles
This Irish inspired tune from our favorite Australian children’s group is an excellent way to introduce your little one to waltzing. You could dance together or each of you dance with a doll or stuffie.
Fairy Dancing Girl by The Fairies
The Fairies is an Australian live-action children’s television series created by Jenifer Watts and is based on two fairies: Harmony and Rainbow Rhapsody. Each episode of the TV series would contain songs and dance routines, and you can find more on YouTube. Grab some pom poms, scarves, maracas, or bells and feel the rhythm of this pop-inspired song.
Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy by Tchaikovsky
It’s a popular favorite during the holidays, but you can play it anytime of the year. Clear some space in the living room, put on some wings, copy the movements of the ballerina or make up your own dance. Let your child lead what kind of dancing they’d like to do. If your fairy would rather play along with an instrument, try using a triangle or bells to mark the beats.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Mendelssohn
Shakespeare’s play is filled with magical creatures. Mendelssohn’s Scherzo from the ballet has the energy and flight of fairies. Watch the dancers in this ballet and come up with your own movements. If you have a flute or recorder, play along with the music. Tell your fairy play whatever their heart moves them to play.
Sleeping Beauty
Disney movies are full of fairies. Tinker Bell and the Blue Fairy are probably the most recognizable. But the Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather have a special place in many people’s hearts with their selfless protection of Aurora/Rose in Sleeping Beauty and as teachers in Sofia the First. If your little fairy is Sleeping Beauty fan, they’ll probably recognize this song. Let them do an interpretive dance of what’s going on in the movie during this song. Plus you can have them grab any instrument you may have and play along to the music
Written by Amelia Vitarelli, owner and educator of My Little Conservatory in San Jose, CA. Amelia has been enriching the lives of children in Silicon Valley for over 20 years.
