Nursery rhymes perfect for April: A collection of classic spring songs that capture the season

Mr. ElephantSakushi: Mado Michio / Sakkyoku: Dan Ikuma

Zou-san | Children's song | Red Cat Reading

Born from the collaboration of Michio Mado and Ikuma Dan, this song—portraying a warm bond between parent and child—was first broadcast on NHK Radio in May 1952.

Characterized by a gentle triple-time melody and heartwarming lyrics that cherish one’s individuality, it has been featured in many educational and children’s TV programs and is loved across generations.

The May 2007 version by Satoko Yamano and the Morinoki Children’s Choir remains one of the most beloved recordings.

With a melody that nestles close to the heart like a gentle spring breeze, it’s perfect for parents and children to hum together.

In the fresh green season, singing it while out for a walk will make for even more delightful memories.

rainbowSakushi: Shinzawa Toshihiko / Sakkyoku: Nakagawa Hirotaka

Niji – Colorful Palette [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO] (Hirotaka Nakagawa / Toshihiko Shinzawa)

A gem of a song by Toshihiko Shinzawa and Hirotaka Nakagawa, it gently sings of hopeful expectations for tomorrow, themed around meeting a seven-colored rainbow in the garden after the rain.

Since its release in 1990, it has been loved by many for its lyrics that depict small everyday joys and its warm melody.

In 2020, it was featured as the commercial song for Kao’s “Attack ZERO,” revealing new charm alongside striking visuals starring Tori Matsuzaka and others.

It’s a tune you’ll want the whole family to hum together, especially when you’re feeling down.

ladybugSakushi: Shimizu Aki / Sakkyoku: Kobayashi Tsuyae

[Children’s Song] Ladybug

A children’s song lovingly sung by Aki Shimizu and Tsuyae Kobayashi about a small red insect.

Set to a bright, lighthearted melody, it gently portrays the charming creature with its red body and distinctive black spots.

The song is included on the albums “Kodomo no Uta 200,” “Let’s Sing About Nature!,” and in the 1981 publication “Minna no Uta: 86 Songs,” and has long been beloved by many children.

With its friendly tune, it’s the kind of song you’ll find yourself humming on a leisurely spring day while out for a stroll.

It’s perfect not only for music activities in nurseries and kindergartens, but also for families to enjoy together while experiencing the nature of spring.

What color do you like?Sakushi: Sakata Osamu / Sakkyoku: Inui Yuki

[Baby Stops Crying] What Color Do You Like? / Together with Mother (Covered by UtaSuta) [Crayon/Colors/Memorization Song]

With its bright, rhythmic melody and friendly lyrics, this heartwarming song helps nurture children’s sense of color.

The gentle voices of Osamu Sakata and Yuko Kanzaki lead listeners into a world of colors like red, blue, yellow, and green.

Released by Victor Entertainment in June 1992, it was featured as the Song of the Month for June and July on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho.” Filled with a soothing melody and elements that make learning color names fun, it’s perfect for singing together with friends and family during walks or outdoor playtime.

It’s also a great pick for spring, when fresh greenery shines, as a way to spark interest in the colors all around us.

Height comparisonSakkyoku: Nakayama Shimpei / Sakushi: Umino Atsushi

Comparing Heights by Atsushi Umino / Shimpei Nakayama

This is a heartwarming children’s song about comparing heights on Boys’ Day (Tango no Sekku).

The lyrics gently portray brotherly love and family bonds, evoking the warm feeling of watching over children as they grow.

Since its release in 1923, it has long been cherished as a classic tied to traditional Japanese celebrations.

Perfect for the season of starting kindergarten or moving up a grade, it can help ease the anxieties of children facing a new environment.

Singing while measuring heights or adding simple hand motions will relax the kids and make it more fun.

And when everyone sings together in unison, it’s sure to strengthen bonds with new friends.