Children’s Songs You Can Sing in August: Summer-Friendly Kids’ Songs and Fingerplay Rhymes

A quiet lakeside

Quiet Lakeside [Children’s Song / School Song] Chorus Animation / Japanese song

“Shizukana Kohan” (Quiet Lakeside) is a German folk song to which Keizo Horiuchi added Japanese lyrics.

Its gentle tempo and catchy, memorable melody make it popular with children, who sing it cheerfully and with enthusiasm.

Because it’s a beloved song, many people of all ages know it, which is another reason it’s so enjoyable.

Forming a circle and holding hands while singing with the children can create a sense of unity and make it even more fun.

Since it’s a bright, lively tune, it’s also recommended for summer events.

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wind chime

wind chime

Hearing the sound of wind chimes in the hot summer gives you a sense of elegance, doesn’t it? With its relaxed tempo and gentle lyrics, “Wind Chimes” is a pleasant children’s song that evokes the feeling of summer.

It’s also great to sing while holding a baby for a nap or when they start to cry.

Showing what an actual wind chime looks like can make it easier to imagine the lyrics, too.

Try singing this wind chime song with children to make the summer heat feel cooler.

It might even become a song that reminds you of your summer memories.

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Hey! SeaSakushi: Yamakawa Keisuke / Sakkyoku: Yamamoto Naosumi

[Summer Song] Hey, Sea! (Lyrics: Keisuke Yamakawa / Music: Naosumi Yamamoto) / Tokyo University of the Arts–graduate sister duo AINANA / AINANA Calendar 2023

When you think of summer, many of you probably picture the blue ocean.

In times like that, we recommend this song, “Hey! Ocean,” which lets you feel the sea’s vastness and beauty, as well as the gentleness and power of nature.

The lyrics are charming, as if you’re really speaking to the ocean, making it perfect to sing with energetic children full of summer spirit.

Move your body to the bright, free-flowing melody and rhythm, and you’ll likely feel your spirits lift! Try singing from your diaphragm, imagining your voice carrying far into the distance.

Let’s dance, Ondo!

Let's dance, Ondo!

This is a participatory Bon Odori song that everyone can enjoy moving their bodies to.

The comical vocals and lively rhythm combine to create an atmosphere that naturally makes you want to dance as you listen.

The choreography that matches the lyrics is easy to follow, making it perfect for getting everyone excited at preschools or local summer festivals.

With moves like fireworks and hand claps, you’ll listen on with anticipation, wondering what comes next.

The instrumental tones are vibrant, and the balance with the vocals is exquisite.

A major appeal is that children can shout along, move their bodies, and have fun together.

Whether dancing in yukata or hero costumes, this song lets you fully feel the bustle of summer.

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Tanuki Lord’s Ondo

Tanuki Lord's Bon Dance: Junpeke Dance Paralyrhythm

“Tanuki no Tonosama Ondo” is a playful ondo that portrays the cheerful world of tanuki.

The song weaves in humorous scenes, inviting dancers to move as if enjoying a story.

Its tempo is calm yet easy to follow, making it perfect for Bon Odori.

The vocals are gentle, creating a soothing atmosphere that children can sing along to with ease.

Traditional Japanese instruments envelop the piece, giving it a distinctly Japanese sensibility.

The choreography—like handclaps and the tanuki’s tummy-patting—makes movements easy to express, welcoming participants of all ages.

This song, which lets you experience the tanuki’s delightful tale through music and dance, will color a memorable moment of summer.

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Oh, the ranch is green.

Oh, the pasture is green — oh, the pasture is green; over the sea of grass the wind blows~ (with gestures)

Let’s move our bodies to the rhythm! Here are some ideas for “Oh, the Meadow is Green.” These ideas are perfect for summer, when the weather is nice and the air is crisp.

They’re especially recommended if you’re thinking, “What song should we sing this month?” or “I’m looking for something with a good rhythm!” The song “Oh, the Meadow is Green” is the Japanese version of the folk song “Ach, synku, synku”/“Ach, krásná louka” (often known in English as “Ah, Lovely Meadow”), which has been sung for a long time in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

By adding some choreography, you can enjoy engaging with the music even more.

Story Finger

Mr. Story Finger (♪ This finger is Papa ~) Covered by UtaSta | With Lyrics | Okaasan to Issho Children’s Song | Finger Talking | A baby-stopping-crying, laughing, delighting cute hand play song♫

Something kids are sure to love! Here are some ideas for “Ohanashi Yubisan.” On hot summer days, you probably spend more time indoors, right? We recommend using “Ohanashi Yubisan” as an introduction before physical play, picture books, or craft activities.

Children will be captivated by the movements and singing of teachers or parents, and their attention will naturally gather.

Another nice benefit is that they can learn the names of their fingers while playing! Give it a try.