[Children's Songs] Cute songs recommended for childcare. List of popular nursery rhymes.
Kids love to sing!
Singing is a form of exercise, nurtures interest in language, and helps develop expressiveness and a sense of rhythm.
It’s also said that singing releases “happy hormones,” making it effective for relieving stress.
Bring plenty of music into daily life and sing freely together with your children.
This time, we’re introducing popular children’s songs we’d love you to sing and play with your kids!
We’ve collected everything from classic nursery rhymes passed down through the years to the latest hit songs.
You can search songs by category—animals, vehicles, food, and more—so you’re sure to find the perfect tune for your children.
If you add simple choreography or hand-play motions as well as singing, the kids will be thrilled!
Be sure to explore a variety of nursery rhymes and enjoy happy times with your children!
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Spring Song (11–20)
Song of a little birdSakushi: Yoda Jun’ichi / Sakkyoku: Akutagawa Yasushi
This piece, which gently captures the chirping of little birds, warmly embraces the hearts of young children.
Jun’ichi Yoda’s lyrics and Yasushi Akutagawa’s music blend beautifully to bring to life the image of small birds living in nature.
The onomatopoeic words in the lyrics spark children’s imaginations and make singing delightful.
Since its debut in 1954, this song has remained beloved in kindergartens and nursery schools, making it perfect for entrance ceremonies.
It helps ease the anxiety of children facing a new environment and is sure to turn their nerves into smiles through song.
I want to scribble on the sky.sakushi: Yamagami Michio / sakkyoku: Izumi Taku
Let us introduce a dream-filled children’s song that’s perfect for the season when May’s fresh greenery sparkles.
Created by Michio Yamagami (lyrics) and Taku Izumi (music), this piece is a delightful song that nurtures children’s rich imagination.
With lyrics brimming with free-spirited dreams—like a big apple tree, a bulldog, and a long bridge—paired with a light, cheerful melody, it’s truly charming.
It’s included on the albums “Kodomo no Uta: Paku Paku Itadakimasu!” and “Ukiuki Wakuwaku! Kodomo no Uta,” and is also used as teaching material in kindergartens and nursery schools.
It’s a wonderful song to enjoy the joys of spring—whether you sing it while looking up at the sky on a walk, or sing along with friends while drawing pictures.
Summer Songs (11–20)
A summer song that puts you in a fun mood!
Doesn’t just the word “summer” make you feel a little brighter? For kids, it’s surely a favorite season because they get to enjoy summer vacation. The summer songs I’m about to introduce are mostly cheerful and fun, and just listening to them will make you feel excited! I’ll be sharing some recommended tracks to soundtrack your fun summer! Reference article:[Childcare] Summer songs: Full of fun! Summer nursery rhymes & finger-play songs
Summer Songs (1–10)
Hey! SeaSakushi: Yamakawa Keisuke / Sakkyoku: Yamamoto Naosumi
When you think of summer, many of you probably picture the blue ocean.
In times like that, we recommend this song, “Hey! Ocean,” which lets you feel the sea’s vastness and beauty, as well as the gentleness and power of nature.
The lyrics are charming, as if you’re really speaking to the ocean, making it perfect to sing with energetic children full of summer spirit.
Move your body to the bright, free-flowing melody and rhythm, and you’ll likely feel your spirits lift! Try singing from your diaphragm, imagining your voice carrying far into the distance.
Let’s dance, Ondo!
This is a participatory Bon Odori song that everyone can enjoy moving their bodies to.
The comical vocals and lively rhythm combine to create an atmosphere that naturally makes you want to dance as you listen.
The choreography that matches the lyrics is easy to follow, making it perfect for getting everyone excited at preschools or local summer festivals.
With moves like fireworks and hand claps, you’ll listen on with anticipation, wondering what comes next.
The instrumental tones are vibrant, and the balance with the vocals is exquisite.
A major appeal is that children can shout along, move their bodies, and have fun together.
Whether dancing in yukata or hero costumes, this song lets you fully feel the bustle of summer.
Genki Ondo
It’s a bright and lively Bon Odori song.
Set to a poppy rhythm, it features moves like the “hungry tummy growl” pose and big-voice gestures that naturally make kids want to move.
The choreography is easy to follow and full of the joy of dancing together.
Its energetic tempo and friendly vocals will further boost the festive mood.
The clear rhythm and catchy melody stick in your head, and moving freely to the music brings out smiles.
Popular as a versatile number for kindergartens and local summer festivals, it’s perfect for summer events where everyone can dance, sing, and feel energized.