[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.
- [Age 5] A roundup of anime for 5-year-olds that will draw them into the story
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- [Age 3] A roundup of anime for 3-year-olds that adults can enjoy too
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- Useful for childcare! Today’s recommended recreational activities, including fingerplay and games!
[Anime] For toddlers! A roundup of anime to enjoy with your kids (41–50)
Pingu
Pingu is a stop-motion animation created in Switzerland.
Many adults probably watched it when they were children.
There are no spoken lines; the story unfolds entirely through sound effects and the vocalizations of Pingu and his friends.
Its charm is sure to captivate many children.
New episodes have also been produced since 2017.
Pingu’s expressive faces—laughing, getting angry—somehow mirror the way children are.
It’s a delightful series that kids are sure to love.
[Anime] For Toddlers! A Compilation of Anime to Enjoy with Kids (51–60)
Moominvalley Friends
The Moomin series unfolds around the adorable fairy-like Moomin family.
It features distinctive characters, but there are no strict rules about how things should be—friendship and family take shape in a free, open environment.
You might even learn about elements that connect to diversity through the stories.
Even when various events or incidents occur, the series conveys the importance of creating your own sense of joy and finding ways to enjoy everyday life.
Even if something that happens isn’t good for you, the Moomin way is to view it with a positive mindset.
Find hints you can bring into daily life together with your children by learning from Moomin.
The Lion King
Released by Disney in 1994, The Lion King is a work that continues to be loved by many people.
Its appeal also lies in the variety of ways to enjoy it, from live-action adaptations to stage musicals.
Simba, a young lion, is driven out of his kingdom as a child, but he confronts his past and battles the villain Scar to reclaim his home.
With its cast of unique animals, it can also be used as a way to learn about nature.
Why not enjoy it along with its wonderful songs?
LEGO Friends
Many of you have probably played with LEGO bricks before.
Among LEGO sets, LEGO Friends offers playsets that tie in with the animated series.
They’re not just cars and dinosaurs aimed at boys; they let all children, including girls, express familiar experiences and ideas they come up with.
What’s more, the LEGO Friends anime takes the era and social context into account, and its characters are very appealing.
Through the show, kids also have opportunities to learn about differences in skin color and culture, as well as about people with physical disabilities or mental health challenges.
Spirited Away
Here is an introduction to Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.
The protagonist, Chihiro, finds that her parents have been turned into pigs.
Even when she’s alone in an unfamiliar place, she does her best to take action.
As she struggles in a life where the things she once took for granted are no longer there, you can see her growing—like climbing the steps to adulthood—expressing proper thanks to those who help her, and more.
The film also carries a message about valuing nature, which can lead to discussions with children about our current living environment.
Through the story, you can also learn the importance of work.
Shimajirō
Shimajiro, the character from Benesse’s learning program “Kodomo Challenge,” is probably familiar even to many adults.
The animated series began airing in 2012.
The stories of Shimajiro and his friends are filled with memorable, quintessentially childlike moments that make you nod in recognition.
Children can empathize and easily immerse themselves in the narratives.
There are also many scenes that prompt reflection on relationships with friends and adults, making it highly recommended as an educational anime.
Go! Anpanman
When it comes to anime popular with toddlers, Soreike! Anpanman is a top choice.
The main character, Anpanman, was born when the Star of Life came to dwell in a sweet red bean bun.
From there, he grew up strong and became a hero of justice who helps everyone! He helps people in need and battles Baikinman, who was created to defeat Anpanman.
The stories are generally kind and easy to understand, and the battle scenes with Baikinman are simple, making it one of the anime we’d love even one-year-olds to enjoy.
