Learn The Wop
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Learn the Wop dance by practicing four simple steps, timing, and safe movements with music to build coordination, rhythm, and confidence.

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Step-by-step guide to Learn the Wop dance

What you need
A song with a steady beat, adult supervision required, clear open space about the size of a small rug, comfortable clothes, flat shoes or bare feet, mirror or reflective surface optional

Step 1

Put on comfortable clothes and flat shoes or go barefoot so you can move safely.

Step 2

Clear a safe open space by pushing toys and furniture aside so you have room to dance.

Step 3

Warm up by marching in place for 30 seconds to wake up your legs.

Step 4

Play a song with a steady beat at a low volume so you can hear the rhythm.

Step 5

Practice Step 1: step to the right on one beat and stop so you feel your balance.

Step 6

Practice Step 2: step to the left on one beat and stop so the motion becomes easy.

Step 7

Practice Step 3: step forward on one beat and stop to learn the forward motion.

Step 8

Practice Step 4: step back on one beat and stop to learn the backward motion.

Step 9

Put the four steps together in order slowly and do the full sequence three times to connect the moves.

Step 10

Practice the full sequence to the music while counting 1-2-3-4 and moving on 1 to build timing and rhythm.

Step 11

Cool down with gentle stretches for 30 seconds to relax your muscles.

Step 12

Share your finished Wop dance on DIY.org

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

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Help!?

What can we use if we don't have flat shoes or can't play music from speakers?

If you don't have flat shoes you can wear sneakers or dance in socks on a non-slip surface, and if you can't use speakers play the steady-beat song from a phone, tablet, or a metronome app at low volume.

I'm losing my balance when doing the steps—how do I fix that?

If you wobble while practicing Steps 1–4, slow the movements, take smaller steps, repeat the 30-second marching warm-up, and practice each single step until you can stop and hold your balance.

How can I adapt the activity for different ages or skill levels?

For younger kids, have a parent hold hands while doing each Step 1–4 once and reduce the sequence to one repetition, while older children can increase tempo, add extra turns, and repeat the full sequence more than three times.

How can we extend or personalize the Wop beyond the basic instructions?

Add matching arm movements for each Step 1–4, create a unique intro and 30-second cool-down stretch, change the song to alter the mood, and record the routine to share on DIY.org.

Watch videos on how to learn the Wop dance

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Learn Hip Hop Dance: The Wop Dance

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Facts about dance for kids

❤️ Short dance practice bursts (even 5–10 minutes) can boost mood and energy, making learning feel fun and motivating.

⏱️ Most pop songs use a 4/4 beat, so counting '1-2-3-4' is a simple trick to keep perfect timing when you dance.

👟 Breaking moves into safe, slow steps and wearing supportive shoes reduces trips and helps beginners gain confidence.

🕺 Hip hop and street dances (like the Wop) often spread through local scenes and short viral videos that make moves famous fast.

🧠 Practicing the same four steps builds motor memory — your brain and muscles learn the sequence so it becomes automatic.

How do I teach my child The Wop dance step by step?

To teach The Wop, break the dance into four simple steps: 1) weight shift with a gentle bounce to the beat, 2) step-touch timed to counts, 3) a small knee lift or hop on the next count, and 4) an arm groove and final pose. Demonstrate slowly, count 1–2–3–4 aloud, then practice each step repeatedly. Use a mirror or face your child, start with slowed music, keep sessions short, and praise effort as timing improves.

What materials do I need to teach The Wop to kids?

You'll need a short, age-appropriate music track and a speaker or phone; a clear, safe space free of furniture; comfortable shoes or bare feet on a non-slip surface; a small water bottle and towel; and a timer for short practice rounds. Optional items include a mirror to self-correct, floor markers (tape) for step placement, and a chair for breaks. Keep volume moderate and supervise younger children.

What ages is The Wop dance suitable for children?

The Wop can be adapted for many ages. With adult supervision, preschoolers (around 3–5) can learn simplified, slower steps. Children aged 5–12 are ideal for learning all four steps, timing, and coordination. Teens can add styling and speed. Always adapt moves for each child’s physical ability, give frequent breaks, and consult a pediatrician before vigorous activity if your child has health concerns.

What are the benefits and safety tips for kids learning The Wop?

Learning The Wop builds coordination, rhythm, musical timing, and self-confidence while offering light aerobic activity and social play. For safety, warm up briefly, clear the dance area of obstacles, use non-slip footwear or soft flooring, control music volume, and keep moves within the child’s comfort zone. Offer water breaks, supervise younger children, slow the tempo for beginners, and celebrate progress to keep practice fun and motivating.
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