Watching a talent show, be it on TV or at a school event, is entertaining. However, having your child participate provides an even more enriching experience. Yet, navigating through a myriad of talent show ideas for kids can seem daunting given the vast array of choices.

Talent showcases present a special opportunity for your child to display their abilities and voice their creativity. These events not only amplify their self-confidence but also help them tackle stage anxiety. Therefore, it’s pivotal to select an activity or creative art form that best accentuates your child’s unique talent in a fresh and engaging manner. 

At school talent shows, the array of talents children choose to showcase is a vivid testament to their diverse interests and passions. While some may opt for traditional performances like singing or dancing, others venture into more unconventional territories, be it a mesmerizing magic trick, a captivating storytelling session, or even a display of technological prowess. 

Speaking of unique talents, some students also decide to show off their sports skills:

6-year-old shows off her deadlift strength for her school talent show!💪🏼

65 lbs (10 lbs over her body weight)🤯 pic.twitter.com/D1xVQR7v4W

— Squat University (@SquatUniversity) May 25, 2023

Regardless of the act, these shows provide a valuable platform for students to express themselves, emphasizing that every talent, whether mainstream or unconventional, deserves celebration and applause. Dive into this article to glean insights from top talent show suggestions for kids and to understand the factors pivotal in making the best choice for your young performer.

Difficulty Level: Low

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Recorded song, microphone for effectLip-syncing provides an inclusive and entertaining talent show option for elementary school children, allowing them to express their passion for music, incorporate dance, and promote camaraderie through lip-sync battles, regardless of their singing ability.

Lip-syncing is an excellent talent show concept, especially suited for elementary school students. It acknowledges that not every child possesses a naturally gifted singing voice, offering them an opportunity to express themselves through music without the challenges of vocal delivery.

This entertaining activity simply requires a love of music and a commitment to learning song lyrics. It empowers children to showcase their passion for music and performance, allowing them to step into the shoes of their favorite artists and bring songs to life through expressive gestures and movements. Lip-syncing is an inclusive and enjoyable way for young talents to shine on stage, celebrating their creativity and enthusiasm.

In summary, lip-syncing is an inclusive talent show avenue, ensuring every student has the chance to shine, express their artistic side, and most importantly, enjoy the moment. Check out our article about musical activities to help your kid develop musicality.

Watch as these talented students light up the stage in an epic lip-sync battle at their school talent show:

Difficulty Level: Low

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Music (optional)Hand clapping in talent shows allows elementary students to demonstrate rhythm and creativity, evolving from a simple gesture to a captivating performance that can integrate coordinated movements, unique elements like gloves, and team collaboration.

Hand clapping, commonly seen as a basic gesture, can morph into a captivating talent show performance with the right mix of innovation and finesse. For young students, it presents an opportunity to exhibit rhythm, coordination, and camaraderie. 

While hand clapping might appear simple, crafting it into a memorable act demands precision and dedication. Synchronizing with popular tunes or crafting unique beats, especially when merged with synchronized motions, can leave audiences enthralled.

In essence, hand clapping, when approached as a talent show idea, showcases a fusion of creativity and rhythm. It underlines the fact that with imagination and dedication, even fundamental gestures can make a profound impact.

Take a look at this video to see a hand clapping performance showcased:

Difficulty Level: Low

Participants: Solo

Needed: Bubble solution, bubble wands

In an elementary school talent show, a bubble-blowing act can captivate viewers with its blend of magic and nostalgia. The success of this performance hinges on the experimentation with solutions, potentially enhanced with glycerin or corn syrup, which allows for the creation of more resilient bubbles.

Utilizing various rings and tools, performers can craft a diverse array of bubbles, from the tiniest delicate spheres to large radiant orbs, and even adopt unique shapes like stars or hearts. When synchronized with music, the display becomes even more enchanting, as the bubbles dance in harmony with the rhythm. This act serves as a beautiful reminder of the fleeting, simple joys life offers.

Check out this video to see a bubble blowing performance in action:

Difficulty Level: Low

Participants: Group

Needed: Music, dark blanketThe knee dance, a humorous and imaginative act for an elementary school talent show, transforms children’s knees into comical dancers using costumes and paint, offering an innovative and memorable performance option for those hesitant about traditional dancing.

The knee dance is a whimsical performance idea that turns traditional dance on its head, making it an engaging fit for elementary school talent shows. Ideal for those hesitant about their dance skills, this act shines the light on an unexpected star: the knees. Preparation is about dressing the lower legs in comical costumes like mini tutus, with the knees painted as expressive faces.

As children perform hidden behind dark blankets, their animated “knee” characters dance, twirl, and converse, eliciting laughter and applause. When performed collectively, the charm intensifies, creating an uproarious ensemble. All in all, the knee dance emphasizes that a dash of innovation can turn anyone into a talent show sensation.

Check out this video for a demonstration of the knee dance:

Difficulty Level: Low to Middle

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Pillows, drawing materials for emojis, music for danceThe “pillow people dance” is an innovative elementary school talent show act where children with emoji-adorned pillows on their faces blend humor, dance, and storytelling, highlighting the limitless creativity of young performers.

The “pillow people dance” breathes new life into traditional performances, showcasing a unique blend of humor and creativity tailored for elementary talent shows. Children dance with emoji-decorated pillows strapped to their faces, turning a simple prop into a canvas of comedic expressions. 

As the music starts, their lively movements paired with static emoji faces become a spectacle, eliciting laughter from the audience. Beyond just dance, this act opens avenues for storytelling, with each emoji hinting at a character’s narrative. In its essence, the pillow people dance highlights the boundless imagination of young performers, transforming the ordinary into an unforgettable act.

In conclusion, the “pillow people dance” underscores the endless creativity of children. Using a simple prop like a pillow, young performers can transform an ordinary item into the star of a remarkable and memorable act.

Take a look at this video to see the pillow people dance in action:

Difficulty Level: Low to Medium

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Jump ropeJump rope performances in an elementary talent show, when paired with energetic music and creative routines, transform a classic pastime into a rhythmic and captivating spectacle of agility and teamwork.

Jumping rope, more than just a childhood game, can transform into a captivating highlight for an elementary school talent show. With the right blend of creativity, this nostalgic activity becomes a rhythmic spectacle, merging agility with synchronized dance. 

Pairing the jumps with upbeat music adds dynamism, while introducing lights amplifies the visual appeal. Whether solo or with friends, the performance possibilities, from tandem jumps to synchronized routines, are vast. Yet, practicing on the actual stage beforehand is vital, ensuring performers are familiar with the space, leading to a seamless and memorable show.

With these elements in place, the jump rope performance is bound to evoke both nostalgia and admiration, making it a memorable act of the night.

Watch this video for an example of a rope jumping performance:

Difficulty Level: Low to Medium

Participants: Solo

Needed: Magic propsMagic acts in elementary talent shows offer students a chance to captivate audiences, and with the right kit and ample practice, young magicians can turn the stage into a world of wonder and astonishment.

Magic acts have a timeless appeal, enchanting talent show audiences with wonder and amazement. For young students, performing magic can be their moment to captivate peers and adults using beginner-friendly tricks from accessible magic kits. These kits often contain safe yet astonishing tricks tailored for novice magicians, from mind-bending card tricks to vanishing scarf acts.

Practice is the cornerstone of an impressive magic act. Through regular rehearsals, young performers can refine their tricks to perfection. Support from guardians in the form of feedback and encouragement can further enhance their act. With dedication and confidence, these young magicians can turn a talent show into a mesmerizing spectacle.

Check out this video to see a sample magic performance:

Difficulty Level: Low to Medium

Participants: Solo

Needed: Hula hoopHula hooping in elementary talent shows offers a dynamic visual spectacle, and with advanced techniques and ample practice, students can deliver a performance that beautifully merges art and athleticism, enthralling audiences.

Hula hooping, more than a childhood pastime, can be elevated into a captivating talent show act for elementary students. This playful activity, when presented on stage, unfolds as a dynamic and colorful spectacle. Beyond basic waist rotations, incorporating a variety of tricks—like spinning the hoop around the neck or transitioning between body parts—can leave the audience astounded.

For advanced performers, handling multiple hoops simultaneously adds another dimension of intrigue. However, extensive rehearsal is paramount. It refines the act and boosts the performer’s confidence. Ultimately, a hula hoop performance combines artistry with athleticism, promising a memorable and enchanting showcase.

Check out this video to see a hula hoop performance in action:

Difficulty Level: Low to Medium

Participants: Group

Needed: Costumes, runway, musicAn elementary school talent show’s fashion segment empowers children to express their individuality and creativity, turning the school stage into a vibrant runway that celebrates the enchanting world of fashion.

A fashion show segment can be a dynamic highlight in an elementary school talent show. It offers young fashion enthusiasts a platform to express themselves and share their unique style. Children choosing their outfits adds authenticity, whether inspired by current trends or their imaginative designs, allowing personal stories to grace the runway.

Including both the spotlight-loving kids and those who prefer working behind the scenes ensures inclusivity. The addition of mood-enhancing music and dramatic lighting further transforms the stage into a vibrant runway. Overall, this segment celebrates young creativity, blending fashion with the spirited energy of youth.

Take a look at this video to see a sample fashion show performance:

Difficulty Level: Low to High

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Instrument(s)Elementary school talent shows provide an ideal platform for budding musicians to showcase their skills, with simple instruments like recorders and ukuleles offering an enchanting and memorable musical experience for the audience.

Musical performances have always held a special place in talent shows, especially for budding elementary school musicians. The journey of mastering an instrument is both challenging and rewarding, and showcasing this skill can be a proud moment for any young artist. Letting your child pick their favorite instrument and tune ensures they perform with passion and confidence.

Regular practice at home is essential for fine-tuning their performance. Instruments like recorders, keyboards, and ukuleles are perfect for younger students due to their simplicity and delightful sound. Witnessing a child’s dedication through each note not only demonstrates their talent but also provides a memorable experience for all attendees.

Watch this video to see a sample of an elementary school drum performance:

Difficulty Level: Low to High

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Music, possibly costumesDance acts in elementary school talent shows, whether solo or group performances, offer a captivating blend of rhythm, movement, and expression, ensuring a memorable experience for audiences and performers alike.

Dance performances are a highlight in elementary school talent shows, captivating audiences with a fusion of rhythm and expression. Tailoring the act to your child’s interest, from the elegance of ballet to the lively beats of freestyle, enhances their comfort and engagement. Pairing the chosen dance form with complementary music and attire can elevate the entire spectacle.

Dance is versatile, allowing solo spotlights or collaborative group performances. Choreography set to popular children’s tunes resonates with the young audience, forging a delightful musical bond. At its core, these dance segments celebrate youthful energy and the joy of movement, ensuring a memorable show for all.

Take a look at this video to see a dance performance sample:

Difficulty Level: Low to High

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Microphone, background musicSinging in elementary school talent shows allows children to showcase their vocal talents, boost their confidence, and connect with audiences through familiar and emotive performances, whether solo or in a group.

Singing is a cherished talent show option for elementary students, allowing their youthful voices to charm audiences. Choosing a song that aligns with your child’s comfort is vital, paired with dedicated practice sessions. As caregivers, guiding their rehearsals and providing feedback can enhance their confidence.

The versatility of singing means kids can opt for a solo spotlight or harmonize in a group. Familiar children’s tunes can be the perfect choice, ensuring both performers and audience members connect. Ultimately, singing offers a blend of vocal talent and emotional expression, making it a heartwarming addition to any elementary talent show.

Don’t know which song to choose? Check out our list of school appropriate songs.

Take a look at this video to see a singing performance example:

Difficulty Level: Medium

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Karate uniform, beltsKarate demonstrations in elementary school talent shows highlight the young martial artist’s discipline and skill, offering an engaging and inspiring display of strength, precision, and dedication through practiced routines and powerful techniques.

Karate, with its blend of discipline and strength, offers a captivating act for elementary school talent shows. If your child practices karate, their stage demonstration can be a blend of empowerment and entertainment. A proper “gi” (karate uniform) is vital for authenticity, while thorough practice ensures precision in every move, from stances to kicks.

Enhancing the performance with props, like foam targets, can visually display techniques to the audience. A highlight, such as breaking a board, showcases sheer power, leaving viewers astounded. Overall, a karate act underscores the dedication and resilience inherent in this martial art, inspiring others through the power of practice and determination.

Take a look at this video to see an example of a karate demonstration:

Difficulty Level: Medium

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Glow sticks, black clothing, musicThe glowing stick dance, where performers adorned with luminescent sticks on black outfits create the illusion of dancing stick figures, offers a mesmerizing blend of creativity, rhythm, and light, becoming a standout and imaginative act in talent shows.

The glowing stick dance, with its radiant allure, is gaining traction, especially on social media platforms, making it an exciting choice for elementary school talent shows. Performers wear plain black attire, enhancing the luminance of strategically attached glowsticks. When lights dim, these sticks give the illusion of animated stick figures, creating a captivating visual treat.

Choosing a lively song is vital, bringing the glowing figure to life with every beat. Regular practice ensures seamless synchronization to the music, making each movement of the glowstick-clad figure enchantingly fluid. This innovative dance, intertwining imagination and rhythm, promises a mesmerizing performance that’ll dazzle audiences.

Have a look at this video for a demonstration of a glow stick dance performance:

Difficulty Level: Medium

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Pogo sticks, safety gear (like helmets and knee pads)A pogo stick performance in an elementary school talent show, choreographed with tricks and synchronized to music, offers a dynamic and memorable act that showcases youthful agility and coordination.

Performing on pogo sticks has always fascinated children, combining the joy of bouncing with the challenge of balance. Introducing a pogo stick act in an elementary school talent show offers a refreshing departure from traditional acts, promising an engaging display of agility and coordination.

The key to an impressive pogo stick routine lies in choreography. Incorporating tricks like leaping over chairs or gracefully navigating figure-eight patterns not only showcases the performer’s skills but also adds complexity to the routine. Synchronizing these moves to an upbeat song creates a harmonious fusion of motion and melody, making the performance dynamic and captivating. Thorough practice is crucial to ensure a flawless and safe performance, making this act a memorable highlight of the talent show.

View this video to see an example of a pogo stick performance:

Difficulty Level: Medium

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Baton or ribbon, musicTwirling, synchronized to emotive music and executed either solo or in a group, is an elegant dance performance that can enchant an elementary school talent show audience with its harmony and grace.

Twirling, an elegant and graceful dance form, can shine in an elementary school talent show, epitomizing dance’s pure essence. Music choice is pivotal; slow, emotive melodies set the stage. As the music flows, watching a child immerse themselves in twirling becomes a heartwarming spectacle. Their gentle arcs and spins, in harmony with the music, create a dreamy ambiance. 

A solo twirling act highlights individual grace, but a synchronized group adds complexity and allure. Flawlessly executed group performances can leave an indelible mark, creating moments of shared wonder. In essence, twirling in an elementary talent show celebrates the art of dance in all its splendor.

Watch this video to experience the beauty of a twirling performance:

Difficulty Level: Medium

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Hoverboards, suitable area for practice, safety gear (like helmets)The hoverboard routine in talent shows fuses modern technology with traditional performance, offering a captivating blend of dance and storytelling that resonates with the contemporary interests of young performers and audiences.

In today’s talent shows, the hoverboard routine is a modern and captivating act for elementary school showcases. It combines technology and tradition to promise visually stunning entertainment. Picture young performers gracefully gliding on hoverboards, moving with the music and executing seamless twists and spins. 

Beyond dancing, hoverboards offer creative possibilities, allowing performers to craft narratives, perhaps portraying a futuristic world or reimagining classic tales with a modern twist. Embracing the hoverboard routine celebrates the adaptability and creativity of the young generation, blending tradition and innovation to capture the spirit of modern children and leave audiences in awe.

Watch this video for an exciting hoverboard dancing performance:

Difficulty Level: Medium

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Translucent screen, focused lighting (often a single spotlight or projector), darkened room or stage settingShadow dance, ideal for elementary talent shows, uses silhouettes to tell stories through movement, offering performers both the power of raw emotional expression and the comfort of anonymity behind a screen.

Shadow dance, an enchanting blend of storytelling and movement, offers a captivating avenue for talent expression, ideal for elementary school talent shows. In the dimly lit auditorium, a solitary light illuminates a translucent screen, bringing silhouettes to life. This art form focuses solely on the dancer’s movement, eliminating the need for elaborate costumes or props. 

It’s perfect for students who may struggle with stage fright, as it offers anonymity while empowering their creativity. Shadow dance is a testament to the power of raw emotion and storytelling, emphasizing simplicity and authenticity in crafting captivating tales.

Have a look at this video to experience a shadow dance performance:

Difficulty Level: Medium

Participants: Solo

Needed: Puppet or dummy, potential script or set of jokesVentriloquism, introduced in an elementary talent show, amplifies humor through puppets and offers children a playful platform to showcase their unique skills and deliver laughter.

Ventriloquism, the art of making a puppet appear to speak, is a captivating addition to an elementary school talent show. It combines humor and skill, leaving the audience in stitches. The comical effect of a puppet delivering jokes enhances the humor. Even a simple puppet can work, and with practice, your child can master the technique of “throwing their voice.” 

Ventriloquism provides kids with the freedom to display a playful persona behind the puppet, delivering witty comments that are both endearing and hilarious. In essence, ventriloquism offers a unique and amusing talent for an elementary school talent show.

Watch this video for an entertaining ventriloquist act:

Difficulty Level: Medium

Participants: Group

Needed: Script, costumes, propsSkits in elementary school talent shows provide young performers with both entertaining theatrical experiences and valuable life skills, emphasizing teamwork, creativity, and understanding of storytelling.

Skit performances are a hit at elementary school talent shows, offering brief yet impactful storytelling moments. Popular tales like “Little Red Riding Hood” or original narratives provide engaging material. You can also pick a story from our list. 

Rehearsing skits isn’t just about acting; it fosters teamwork, delegation, and decision-making. Each participant, whether acting or managing props, plays a crucial role, teaching life skills. Through this process, young actors delve into storytelling nuances, understanding pacing, tone, and character development. In essence, skits entertain and mold confident, collaborative, and creative individuals on the elementary school stage.

Watch this video to view a skit from a talent show:

Difficulty Level: Medium to High

Participants: Solo or Group

Needed: Safety mats, suitable attire, potentially a coach or instructor for guidanceA gymnastics routine, combining strength, agility, and choreography with rhythmic music, can be a standout performance in an elementary school talent show, showcasing dedication while emphasizing preparation and safety.

Gymnastics, with its grace and strength, is a mesmerizing addition to an elementary school talent show. This dynamic sport, including cartwheels, flips, and tumbles, creates a captivating sequence when thoughtfully choreographed. Showcasing feats like pole vault or parallel bars demonstrates dedication. Preparation is essential, with diligent practice ensuring act perfection and safety. 

Pairing gymnastics with music enhances the performance, syncing movements with beats for a visually stunning and rhythmically captivating act. In conclusion, a well-executed gymnastics routine, accompanied by the right music, shines in an elementary school talent show, leaving the audience in sheer admiration.

Check out this video to watch a gymnastics performance:

It takes some work to put together a quality talent show, but seeing kids bask in the cheers of their fellow students makes it all worth the effort. Here are some of the things you’ll want to think about as you prepare for your show.

First up, decide whether you want your show to just be a display of incredible talent, or if you’d like it to be a judged contest. There are benefits to both, of course, so it simply comes down to whether you want to add another layer of complexity into your planning. If it’s a contest, you’ll need judges and prizes, and you may want to break the acts into different categories.

If possible, consider holding your show during the school day. This way, all kids have the chance to participate. After-school events depend on parents’ ability and willingness to participate, and this will always leave some kids out. Remember, you can always livestream the show, or record it and make the video available for parents and friends to watch later.

Ensure you have a charismatic host to introduce acts, with candidates ranging from school principals to enthusiastic students. It’s vital for the host to pronounce names correctly and smoothly transition between acts. For a talent contest, judiciously pick your judges. Avoid parents whose children are performing to ensure fairness. Consider adding a local celebrity for extra flair. Judges should have a predefined scoring system, whether a scale or point-based categories, to make end-of-show decisions efficiently.

An auditorium or stage can be ideal for talent shows, since it likely has a sound system. Plus, acts can make use of curtains, lights, and other theater elements. But there can be benefits to holding your show in a more open space like a gymnasium too. This could allow kids to use basketball hoops for trick shots or perform bike or skateboard tricks.

Even if you plan to allow everyone who’s interested to participate, it’s always a good idea to hold auditions. This will give you an idea in advance of the kind of acts you can expect, and allow you to wean out any that are inappropriate for your audience. You can also see what type of equipment you’ll need on the big day and get a sense of overall timing.

On the day of the talent show, arrive early to oversee setup and final preparations, ensuring performers have a designated backstage area and are ready for their acts. As the event begins, sit back, relax, and enjoy the talent show along with the audience, but also be prepared to address any unexpected issues that may arise during the event. Your early arrival and readiness to handle any challenges will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.

Elementary school talent shows offer young minds a golden opportunity to express their creativity, showcase their unique skills, and build confidence. Whether it’s through dance, music, art, or even more unconventional acts, these platforms celebrate the boundless imagination and enthusiasm of youth. As educators and parents, fostering and encouraging such events can leave lasting memories and inspire a lifelong love for the arts and self-expression. Embrace the magic, and let the talents shine!

Simona Johnes is the visionary being the creation of our project. Johnes spent much of her career in the classroom working with students. And, after many years in the classroom, Johnes became a principal.

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