Get pumped with kids’ favorite songs! A memorable collection of classics that will make you want to sing along
There are plenty of songs across a wide range of genres that children can enjoy singing.
From timeless favorites like “Sanpo” and “Odoru Pompokolin” to recent kids’ songs, there are many classics loved across generations.
Whether for kindergarten, nursery school, or elementary school music activities—or simply singing together at home—these songs can turn any moment into a wonderful time filled with natural smiles.
From upbeat, energizing tunes to gentle, heartwarming songs, here we introduce pieces that children can enjoy together.
We hope you find a favorite one.
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Get excited with songs kids love! A collection of unforgettable classics that make you want to sing along (141–150)
The Song of the Twelve Zodiac Animalssakushi sakkyoku/miyahira rie
A fun song where the twelve zodiac animals appear in a rhythmic sequence.
It’s perfect for New Year’s and might be a great way for children to become familiar with the twelve zodiac animals.
Created by Rie Miyahira, this piece won the Excellence Award at the 9th Lapomme Grand Prize and is widely loved in early childhood education settings.
Imitating animal sounds or moving your body as if you were each animal while singing makes it even more exciting and enjoyable.
It’s a recommended song to sing with children not only for New Year’s events but also at gatherings with an animal theme.
Roly-poly pill bugSakushi sakkyoku/Shinzawa Toshihiko
A fingerplay song that gently portrays the cute looks and movements of small creatures was created by Toshihiko Shinzawa.
With warm lyrics and melody, it depicts encounters with the little creatures often seen in nature, making it an engaging piece that stimulates children’s curiosity.
Featured on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho” in December 2024, this work includes creative elements that let children enjoy expressing the adorable behaviors of animals through hand motions.
It can be used in kindergartens and preschools, and also serves as a tool for parents and children to bond while fostering an interest in nature.
With soothing lyrics and an approachable tune, it’s a perfect song for making happy memories during walks and outdoor play.
Peekaboo
“Pika Pika Boo” is a gymnastics routine featured on the popular show “Inai Inai Baa!” It incorporates a variety of movements, like spinning around, using your hands, and crawling like a baby.
The lyrics include lots of onomatopoeia, which makes it easy for children to understand what actions to do.
It’s a lively song that’s perfect for playful, movement-based activities.
Get excited with songs kids love! A collection of unforgettable classics that make you want to sing along (151–160)
Let’s take a step into the future
A bright, lively Shima Jiro song about the importance of friendship was born in March 2013 as an insert song for the film “Shimajiro and Fufu’s Great Adventure: Save the Rainbow Flower!” It gently conveys the feelings of the protagonists as they set out on a new journey, and its warm vocals—giving courage to take a step toward the future—leave a lasting impression.
The song has also become popular on the TV program “Shimajiro no Wao!” and makes children’s hearts bounce with joy.
It’s a fun tune that shines in many settings, from dancing at nursery and kindergarten events to singing together as a family.
It’s a reassuring companion that cheers on those first steps in a new environment.
Song of Feathers
This song was created for Shimajiro no Wao!, an educational program that values nurturing children’s vocabulary and knowledge.
Released in September 2013, the song joyfully introduces words that begin with the syllable “ke,” set to a rhythmic melody.
Within the show, children can naturally encounter new words as they sing and dance along with Shimajiro.
The video features illustrations and animations that match the words, richly incorporating visual elements.
This piece is a friendly, accessible song that allows children to enjoy language through singing, whether at home or in childcare settings.
My favorite things
It’s a warmhearted song that helps children find what they love and nurture a sense of cherishing it.
The staging that incorporates sign language is memorable, and there are thoughtful touches throughout that allow children of diverse backgrounds to sing together and have fun.
The melody is pleasant and so familiar you can’t help but hum along.
Released around 2011, it has been used in various settings, including the educational program “Shimajiro no Wao!”, concerts, and events at childcare facilities.
This work truly supports children’s growth, teaching the beauty of expressing gratitude for familiar things and important people.
Singing it together with parents or guardians can also be an opportunity to foster an even deeper bond.
PopopopoposeGReeeeN
Popopopopo Pose is a song GReeeeN wrote specially for the NHK educational program Inai Inai Baa!.
It’s an energetic, powerful track that just overflows with pep, and there’s even a video of popular E-TV characters like Wanwan, U-tan, and Yuki-chan dancing to it, which makes it easy to picture.
The choreography is based on the classic “rock-paper-scissors” hand shapes, so kids can get a good workout right to the tips of their hands and feet.
Songs sung by GReeeeN are easy for adults to get into as well, and the fact that kids can add their favorite poses is a point they’ll love!
