[Anime] For toddlers! A roundup of anime works to enjoy with your kids
There are plenty of wonderful anime that everyone can enjoy, from children to adults! Preschooler-focused anime are especially appealing for their easy-to-understand stories and distinctive characters.
Here, we’ll introduce a variety of anime, from recent hits to long-beloved classics.
They’re packed with elements that kids and adults can enjoy together, and even grown-ups can get hooked.
Why not take this opportunity to try something new? We hope you find a new favorite anime.
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[Anime] For toddlers! A roundup of anime to enjoy with your kids (41–50)
Tayo the Little Bus
The Korean-produced anime Little Bus Tayo features Tayo, a blue boy bus, as the main character.
The story follows Tayo’s everyday life, depicting his interactions with townspeople and friends.
At times, though, it unfolds into grand adventures where he blasts into space to fight villains! It’s sure to be a hit with kids who love vehicles.
Besides Tayo, colorful bus friends also make appearances.
On the official YouTube channel, in addition to the anime itself, there are videos featuring a variety of vehicles such as work trucks and emergency vehicles.
My Neighbor Totoro
One of Studio Ghibli’s works directed by Hayao Miyazaki, it was released in 1988.
Many adults probably loved Totoro when they were kids.
Satsuki and Mei, and the mysterious forest spirit, Totoro—this is a film that sparks children’s imaginations.
It’s fun to daydream about how you might be able to meet Totoro.
Watching the close-knit sisters grow up will leave a different impression when you revisit it as an adult.
It’s a film you’ll want to watch together with children.
Frozen
Disney’s 2014 film Frozen tells a captivating story about Elsa, princess of the Kingdom of Arendelle, and her bond with her younger sister, Anna.
Elsa possesses the power to freeze anything she touches, and after once putting Anna in danger with that power, she distances herself.
Unaware of the past because her memories were erased, Anna earnestly tries to reach out to Elsa.
Beyond its moving story, the theme song “Let It Go,” sung in Japanese by Takako Matsu, became a huge hit among children.
A sequel has also been released, so be sure to watch it along with the original.
SpongeBob
With his big, round eyes and bright yellow body, SpongeBob SquarePants is a memorable character who debuted in the United States in 1999 and is still loved around the world.
As his name suggests, SpongeBob is made of sponge—reportedly inspired by a yellow sponge in the creator’s kitchen! He lives in an underwater city, and the story follows his innocent interactions with a cast of uniquely quirky sea-dwelling friends.
SpongeBob’s cheerful, upbeat personality, along with distinctly American culture and jokes, becomes delightfully addictive, with plenty of moments that will make you burst out laughing.
SpongeBob SquarePants is packed with fun that captivates not only children but adults too—be sure to check it out!
Tom and Jerry
Also available via digital distribution, Tom and Jerry features a delightful slapstick tale of Tom the cat and Jerry the mouse.
With one uproarious situation after another, kids will be glued to the screen.
Though Tom and Jerry are always chasing each other, deep down they mean a lot to one another.
If you have friends who bicker yet are close, you might see a bit of Tom and Jerry in them.
There are many other charming characters as well, so why not watch together—adults and children alike—and find your favorites?
Nokkana Animation
Nokkana Animation is an educational YouTube channel for children that delivers content useful for learning.
In addition to nursery rhymes, it offers a wide range of videos on vehicles, animals, English, and more.
Each video is short, so even parents who are hesitant about long screen time can let their children watch without feeling guilty.
The simple yet cute and easy-to-understand animations, along with repetitive wording, make it easy for young children to grasp and naturally learn a lot while having fun.
It’s an ideal channel for 1- to 2-year-olds who are just starting to say words.
Nontan
Nontan has been loved by children for a long time.
It all began with the picture book Nontan, Let Me Ride the Swing, published in 1976, and there are lots of popular titles! It was adapted into an anime in 1992, and DVDs are also available.
Nontan, a playful and cheerful cat, is a little selfish and not too “perfect,” and that free-spirited, childlike personality resonates with kids.
Through familiar everyday scenes and interactions with friends, the series teaches children important lessons.
In addition to the variety of stories, the catchy rhythm of the words and their repetition are part of the charm.
It could be fun to watch the anime while comparing it with the picture books! Parents might even find stories that bring back memories.
Be sure to enjoy it together as a family.