You can instantly spot the most popular anime among kids! A collection of works that elementary schoolers are crazy about.

Sumikkogurashi

Long PV of the theme song for “Sumikkogurashi the Movie: The Little Wizard in the Blue Moonlit Night” / BUMP OF CHICKEN “Small world”

Sumikkogurashi is a set of characters from San-X that was introduced in 2012.

Did you know its subtitle is “This is where we feel most at home”? The idea was reportedly born from the creator’s doodles during their school days, and that doodle-like looseness and charm have earned it a strong reputation—related merchandise is hugely popular.

In 2019, to celebrate its 7th anniversary, it was adapted into an animated film.

It became a big hit not only with children but also with adults, who said things like “surprisingly deep,” “made me cry,” and “I only went along with my kid, but I was moved and became a fan.” It’s no wonder: despite their cute appearances, the Sumikkogurashi characters are built around concepts with a bittersweet touch—being negative, quirky, or a bit odd—which resonates strongly with adults.

It’s a work I hope parents and children will watch together.

Laid-Back Camp

TV Anime “Laid-Back Camp SEASON 3” Opening Video | On Air 04.04

Laid-Back Camp is a story that portrays the friendship and growth of high school students through camping.

Its charm lies especially in the realistic depictions of camping that even beginners can relate to, and the fun way it teaches tips about gear and cooking.

Centered on the main characters Nadeshiko Kagamihara and Rin Shima, watching the group spend leisurely time in nature is soothing in itself.

The gentle everyday scenes and the direction that showcases beautiful landscapes are part of what makes it so popular.

The camp meals and campfire scenes are so appealing that you’ll want to try them yourself, and they can even spark children’s interest in the outdoors.

Talking with friends about your favorite scenes and characters is sure to be a blast, and the series radiates a relaxed, warm atmosphere.

Kaiju No. 8

“Demonstrate Overwhelming ‘Ability’” / From Kaiju No. 8 Episode 13 (Season 2, Episode 1) “Kaiju Weapon” #shorts

Kaiju No.

8 is a recommended series for upper-elementary students who love battle anime.

The protagonist, Kafka Hibino, once aimed to join the Defense Force to keep a promise to his childhood friend, but after repeatedly failing the exams, he gave up.

However, meeting Reno Ichikawa inspires him to try again.

The battles with kaiju are intense, and the strong Defense Force members are simply cool.

Watching Kafka overcome the hurdles of age and ability to grow is genuinely moving.

Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai

[Watchalong] Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai (2020) Episodes 52–58 [Takane Lui / hololive]

Dai no Daibouken (Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai) is a grand adventure tale about Dai, a boy who dreams of becoming a hero, as he faces powerful foes alongside his companions.

Set in a world of swords and sorcery, it features thrilling battles and a growth-driven drama, making it a great recommendation for upper elementary school kids.

Through clashes with enemies, the story teaches the value of friendship and courage, and each character’s unique personality is part of the appeal.

Beyond the fights, many scenes portray trust among comrades and inner conflicts, making it easy to become emotionally invested.

The original work has been beloved for many years, and its anime adaptation has brought it renewed attention from today’s children.

It’s especially recommended for fans of action and adventure, and it’s sure to spark lively conversations with friends—an exciting, adventure-filled series that fires the imagination.

Haikyu!!

TV anime 'Haikyu!!' Best Episode: No. 1

Haikyu!! is an anime based on a Jump manga that centers on high school volleyball.

“Haikyu” comes from the Japanese word for volleyball, written as “排球.” Its dynamic, high-impact animation has brought many new fans to the sport.

Some elementary school kids even started playing volleyball because of this show.

One of the series’ charms is how popular the rival teams are, like Nekoma High and Aoba Johsai High.

It’s a must-watch for fans of fiery, passionate anime and sports.

Jujutsu Kaisen

Non-credit opening movie for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen / Second cour opening theme: Who-ya Extended "VIVID VICE"

Jujutsu Kaisen is an anime based on a manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump.

The line and pose for “Domain Expansion” by the popular character Gojo-sensei became such a hot topic that people of all ages copied it.

It’s a dark fantasy battle series that depicts sorcerers fighting to exorcise curses born from negative emotions using jujutsu.

The story follows Yuji Itadori, who possesses extraordinary physical abilities and is discovered to have resistance to special grade curses, drawing him into the world of jujutsu.

The theatrical film adaptation was also a massive hit, earning over 23 billion yen worldwide.

Chiikawa

[Official] Chiikawa Episode 1: “Firm Pudding / Pancakes”

On busy mornings, I think many households turn on the TV to use it like a clock.

Nippon TV, Fuji TV—what channel do you watch? For those who watch Mezamashi TV, the anime Chiikawa is a familiar sight.

Just like its title, Chiikawa: Something Small and Cute, the charm of those little two-head-tall characters is just irresistible! Besides the main character Chiikawa, the optimistic Hachiware and the high-energy Usagi are also perfectly adorable.

They’ll totally melt your heart.