Learn the Double Dutch Bus Dance as a Beginner

The Double Dutch Bus dance is a lively group dance inspired by the 1980s hit song “Double Dutch Bus” by Frankie Smith. It combines simple footwork, clapping, and a call-and-response style that makes it easy for beginners to learn and enjoy together. The dance works best with at least two people, but a group of four to eight creates the energetic, bus-like atmosphere. You don’t need any special equipment—just comfortable shoes, a portable speaker for the music, and a flat surface like a park lawn or basketball court. With a few practice rounds, you’ll be stepping, clapping, and laughing in no time.

What is the Double Dutch Bus Dance?

The Double Dutch Bus dance is a choreographed routine that mimics the motion of a bus ride, with dancers moving in a line or circle while stepping side to side, clapping, and singing along. The dance is based on the song’s infectious rhythm and its call-and-response vocals. Beginners can master a simplified version in about 15–20 minutes. The key is to keep the steps repetitive and match them to the beat, making it a great activity for mixed-age groups at a park or backyard gathering.

Essential Rhythm and Dance Steps for Beginners

Before you start, listen to the song once to feel the rhythm. The beat is steady at around 100–110 beats per minute, which is a comfortable walking-to-brisk pace. Count “1-2-3-4” along with the music to lock in the timing.

Basic Footwork Pattern

1. Step-touch right: Step your right foot to the side, then bring your left foot to touch next to it (counts 1-2).
2. Step-touch left: Step your left foot to the side, then bring your right foot to touch next to it (counts 3-4).
3. Bus roll forward: Shift your weight forward onto your right foot, then bring your left foot forward and tap the ground (counts 5-6).
4. Bus roll back: Shift your weight back onto your left foot, then tap your right foot back (counts 7-8).

Repeat this 8-count pattern throughout the verses. When the chorus hits (“Double Dutch Bus!”), add a double clap on counts 1 and 3 while doing the step-touches.

Arms and Clapping

Keep your arms relaxed at your sides during the footwork. On the chorus, add a clap pattern: clap your own hands twice, then clap your neighbor’s hands once (right hand to their left, then left to their right) if you’re in a line or circle. If you’re solo, just clap twice and snap on the “bus” word.

Planning a Park Day Around the Dance

A park is an ideal venue because it offers space, fresh air, and a casual atmosphere. Here’s how to set it up without stress.

Choosing the Right Spot and Time

• Space needed: About 3 square meters per person for comfortable movement, or a 5x5 meter area for a group of six.
• Surface: Short grass or smooth pavement works best. Avoid sandy or muddy areas to prevent slips.
• Time of day: Late morning (10–11 AM) or early evening (5–6 PM) offers cooler temperatures and softer light, reducing sunburn risk and fatigue.
• Weather: Check the forecast. If there’s a light breeze, that’s fine; if rain is likely, have a backup indoor option or postpone. The dance can be done on a covered basketball court or community center floor.

What to Pack: A Practical Picnic for the Group

Keep food simple so you can focus on dancing. Finger foods, water, and a few treats are enough.

Item	Why it works	Budget-friendly swap
Water bottles (1 per person, 500ml)	Hydration without spills; refillable at park fountains.	Bring a large jug and reusable cups.
Pre-cut fruit (apples, grapes)	No mess, quick energy, kids love them.	Whole fruit like bananas or oranges.
Crackers and cheese sticks	Easy to portion, no utensils needed.	Pretzels and a block of cheese to slice.
Trail mix or granola bars	Compact, non-perishable, good for between dances.	Homemade popcorn in a bag.
A small blanket or tarp	Keeps food off damp grass and marks your base.	Any old sheet works.
Portable speaker (optional)	Plays the song clearly for everyone.	One phone with a good speaker, placed in a cup to amplify.

Pack everything in a lightweight backpack or cooler bag. Bring a trash bag to leave the park clean—it takes seconds and keeps the space welcoming for others.

Step-by-Step: Teaching the Dance to a Group

Follow this sequence to get everyone moving without confusion.

1. Warm up: Play the song once and just march in place to the beat. This builds rhythm without pressure.
2. Teach the footwork without music: Demonstrate the step-touch and bus roll slowly, counting aloud. Have everyone try it for 2–3 minutes.
3. Add the music at half speed: Use a slower version if possible (many music apps let you reduce tempo). Walk through the pattern together once or twice.
4. Add claps on the chorus: Show the double clap and neighbor clap, then practice just the chorus section a few times.
5. Put it all together: Dance the full song once through, focusing on fun rather than perfection. Stop and laugh at mistakes—it’s part of the charm.

Adapting for Different Group Needs

• Kids under 6: Simplify the footwork to just four step-touches (right, left, right, left) with claps. They can join the line and follow the adult in front.
• Older adults or those with limited mobility: Perform the steps seated or standing in place, using upper body claps and arm movements. The rhythm is the same, but less strain on knees.
• Large groups (10+): Form two lines facing each other. The front person leads the steps, and everyone else mirrors. Rotate leaders every chorus.
• Shy beginners: Start with a small circle where everyone faces inward, and remove the neighbor clap until people feel comfortable.

Keeping It Simple: Scheduling and Coordination

The beauty of the Double Dutch Bus dance is that it doesn’t require lengthy planning. A 45–60 minute park visit is enough for dancing, snacking, and socializing. Here’s a sample timeline:

• 0–5 minutes: Arrive, set down bags, do a quick stretch.
• 5–15 minutes: Listen to the song and teach the basic steps.
• 15–30 minutes: Practice the dance together, pausing to drink water.
• 30–45 minutes: Enjoy the picnic while the music plays softly.
• 45–60 minutes: Final dance-through for anyone who wants to record a fun video (optional) and pack up.

Use a group chat to confirm the time and location the day before. If someone can’t make it, the dance still works with as few as two people.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Rushing the beat: Beginners often speed up during the bus roll. Remind everyone to keep counting “5-6-7-8” slowly.
• Forgetting to breathe: Encourage smiling and breathing out on the claps—it relaxes the body.
• Too much perfectionism: The dance is meant to be playful. If someone loses the step, they can do a simple march until they catch on.
• Ignoring the surface: Wet grass or loose gravel can cause slips. Do a quick check before starting.

With these tips, you’ll have a joyful, low-cost activity that turns an ordinary park day into a memorable dance party. All you need is a little rhythm, a willing group, and the spirit of the Double Dutch Bus.