[For 0-year-olds] Recommended songs for babies: A special feature on bonding play and traditional nursery rhymes

When the Dock (Japanese knotweed) blooms

Children’s song: When Sorrel Blooms (Skampo no Saku Koro) — Lyrics by Hakushū Kitahara, Music by Kōsaku Yamada

Let me introduce “When the Dock Blooms,” a song with a gentle melody and a bright tempo.

It’s a song about a flower called sukanpo (dock) that blooms in spring.

This warm children’s song evokes nostalgia, depicting children playing happily and energetically in the fields.

Because it includes repeated phrases that help you feel the season, even children around two years old can enjoy joining in.

Of course, it’s also a soothing piece for babies from 0 years old to listen to.

Be sure to try singing it with your children.

Let's have fun.Lyrics/Music: Shinapu

[Songs That Make Babies Happy] Let’s Have Fun (sung by Shoko & The Akilla) [Video to Calm and Delight Babies]

This song, from a popular segment of a baby-focused TV show, features a bright, rhythmic melody that leaves a lasting impression.

Carried by the vocals of Shoko & The Akilla, it unfolds a warm and gentle world.

Its fun melodic lines make even babies want to sway along.

Broadcast as the “Tsuki Uta” (monthly song) for January 2025 on TV Tokyo’s educational program “Sina Pshu,” it has earned strong support from many parents and children.

It’s perfect for cuddle time with your baby or music time.

Why not enjoy a fun moment singing and dancing together with your little one?

peach-colored cheeksLyrics/Composition: Yamamoto Sho

[March 2025 Latest Tsukiuta] Peachy Cheeks 🍑💓 by UtaSta | video by Odorippi | Babies Will Love It | Children's Song | Dance | With Choreography | With Mother | Peekaboo

The new song that began airing in March 2025 on NHK Educational TV’s “Okaasan to Issho” is a cheerful and fun piece created by Sho Yamamoto.

It features an appealing, idol-style melody and lyrics that are easy to enjoy.

With lively choreography designed to bring out children’s smiles, the piece has a heartwarming finish.

Sung joyfully by singer Nagata Maya, exercise leader Anzu Akimoto, and the new character Mimomo-chan, this song is delightful for everyone from babies to young children.

It’s a wonderful tune that families can enjoy together, moving their bodies to the rhythm.

Donut SongLyrics/Music: Makimiki

Donut Song

Let us introduce a fun children’s song themed around donuts, created by Makimiki! It has a gentle feel that you and your child can hum along to.

With its rhythmic, poppy melody and a charming worldview that sings about peeking at Mom and Dad through the donut hole, it’s a must-listen.

The song was also featured on Sanrio’s kids’ program “Kitty’s Paradise.” At a perfect length of 1 minute and 2 seconds for singing together while engaging with your child, it helps create a delightful bonding time with its soothing tones and heartwarming lyrics.

It’s an excellent choice for playful music time and for encouraging friendly physical contact.

Forehead, nose, mouth

Forehead, nose, mouth – Mama Lima original version

It’s a bonding song that starts with the face—forehead, nose, mouth—and turns the whole body into lyrics.

As you sing, gently touch your baby, as if telling them, “This is your forehead,” “This is your nose.” While enjoying the baby’s adorable changing expressions, you’ll also be giving them good stimulation across their whole body.

If you occasionally change the tempo, you might be rewarded with a sweet smile.

By repeating it many times, you’ll learn which touches your baby enjoys the most.

La-la-la daikon

“La-La-La Daikon” hand-play song

Let’s pretend the baby is a daikon radish and play together! There are two versions—grated daikon and dried daikon—so you can enjoy it in two different ways.

With the baby lying on their back, the adult sits by the baby’s feet and gently strokes or pats the reclining baby, engaging in skin-to-skin contact as if they’re cooking.

The bright tune and quirky lyrics are entertaining, making not only the baby but also the adults naturally smile.

It’s a fun activity you can start even with a newborn in the lying-down stage, so give it a try!

Mom’s Slide

Mama’s slide (body play) Sit down~

In the Baby Massage song “Mama’s Slide,” the key point is the sliding part.

Sit your child on your lap, gently support both sides under their arms, and sway their body left and right.

For the “stairs,” gradually bend your knees to change your child’s eye level so it feels like climbing steps.

At the end, with your knees bent, support your child and let them slide down your thighs.

When changing positions, speak gently so your child doesn’t feel uneasy.

Enjoy it at a comfortable pace that suits your child’s stage of development.