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 pumped with songs kids love! A memorable collection of timeless tunes that make you want to sing along (211–220)
strollSakushi: Nakagawa Rieko / Sakkyoku: Hisaishi Joe
This bright, cheerful march-style song is perfect for connecting with your child.
It was included on the album “My Neighbor Totoro Image Song Collection” released in November 1987, and is also well known as the opening theme song of Studio Ghibli’s animated film “My Neighbor Totoro.” The lyrics were written by children’s author Rieko Nakagawa, with music composed by Joe Hisaishi.
Its appeal lies in a simple melody that conveys a positive feeling and warm, heartfelt lyrics.
Because it’s easy to sing while moving energetically, it’s also recommended for musical play in preschools and kindergartens.
It’s a wonderful piece you can enjoy together—holding hands, interacting, and facing your child as you share the experience.
The Puppy Police OfficerSakushi: Satō Yoshimi / Sakkyoku: Ōnaka Megumi
This is a gentle, melodic song depicting the encounter between a lost kitten and a kind police officer.
Written by Yoshimi Sato and composed by Megumi Ohnaka, it was created between the 1950s and 1960s.
With its warm lyrics and rhythmic tune, it’s perfect for fostering children’s emotional development.
It has been broadcast on NHK programs such as “Minna no Uta” and “Okaasan to Issho,” and is beloved by many.
We recommend singing it together with your child while adding simple motions for extra fun.
The heartwarming, picture book–like story will nurture your child’s imagination.
A strawberry is a strawberry.Sakushi: Kotaki Kiyomi / Sakkyoku: Fujita Taishi
This is a charming song with a bright, rhythmic, and fun melody paired with heartwarming lyrics.
It was broadcast in May 1997 as the “Song of the Month” on NHK’s Okaasan to Issho, with lyrics by Kiyomi Kotaki and music by Taishi Fujita.
The gently told story follows a protagonist who dreams of becoming a cake and, while chasing that dream, discovers their own true self—making it a song that enriches children’s imaginations.
Sung and beloved by Kentaro Hayami and Ayumi Shigemori, it was later carried on by Akihiro Sugita and Ryoko Tsumoda.
It is also included on the album NHK Okaasan to Issho Memorial Album and has been cherished by many children.
It’s perfect for humming during walks or outdoor play, and for singing together on spring field trips or fun outings.
When sung with family, it’s sure to become a wonderful memory that shares the joy of spring.
Gluttonous GhostSakushi: Murata Sachiko / Sakkyoku: Fukuda Wakako
This is a fun, humor-filled song that depicts a ghost peeking into the refrigerator in the middle of the night.
Its lyrics incorporate food shapes in a quiz-style format, and the bright, rhythmic melody is memorable.
Created by Sachiko Murata and Wakako Fukuda, the piece was also broadcast on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho” and is beloved by many children.
It’s a great song to sing with two-year-olds while imitating the ghost’s gestures, moving your body, and using your hands to show different food shapes.
It can also be used as a sketchbook theater activity in nursery schools and kindergartens.
What color do you like?Sakushi: Sakata Osamu / Sakkyoku: Inui Yuki
With its bright, rhythmic melody and friendly lyrics, this heartwarming song helps nurture children’s sense of color.
The gentle voices of Osamu Sakata and Yuko Kanzaki lead listeners into a world of colors like red, blue, yellow, and green.
Released by Victor Entertainment in June 1992, it was featured as the Song of the Month for June and July on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho.” Filled with a soothing melody and elements that make learning color names fun, it’s perfect for singing together with friends and family during walks or outdoor playtime.
It’s also a great pick for spring, when fresh greenery shines, as a way to spark interest in the colors all around us.