Choral songs that captivate 4-year-olds! A collection of heartfelt song ideas for junior kindergarten recitals

Only One StoryZEROBASEONE

[Official] Pokémon Anime “Rayquaza Rising” Opening Theme: “Only One Story”

A song that gives you a push toward dreams and adventure has been airing as the opening theme for the TV anime “Pokémon” since October 2024.

With hopeful lyrics and a catchy melody, it carries a message of believing in yourself and moving forward.

As ZEROBASEONE’s first anime tie-in, this heartwarming track is perfect for singing along with kids.

The lyrics, which express anticipation and excitement for the future, resonate with children and give them the courage to walk forward as themselves.

It’s an ideal song to enjoy together with kids, so be sure to sing, dance, and have fun with them!

Oh, the ranch is green.

Oh, the pasture is green — oh, the pasture is green; over the sea of grass the wind blows~ (with gestures)

Let’s move our bodies to the rhythm! Here are some ideas for “Oh, the Meadow is Green.” These ideas are perfect for summer, when the weather is nice and the air is crisp.

They’re especially recommended if you’re thinking, “What song should we sing this month?” or “I’m looking for something with a good rhythm!” The song “Oh, the Meadow is Green” is the Japanese version of the folk song “Ach, synku, synku”/“Ach, krásná louka” (often known in English as “Ah, Lovely Meadow”), which has been sung for a long time in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

By adding some choreography, you can enjoy engaging with the music even more.

Friendship HymnLyrics by Hiroo Sakata / Music: American folk song

Friendship Hymn

This is a bright, energetic song with the theme of the importance of friendship.

Set to the melody of an American folk tune with Japanese lyrics, it’s characterized by a lively rhythm and approachable words.

It spread from the 1970s to the 1980s and has been beloved as part of school education and choir repertoires.

It’s perfect for entrance ceremonies to ease the nerves of new students.

If everyone holds hands, forms a circle, and sings while dancing, smiles are sure to appear naturally.

I think it’s a wonderful song that creates a warm atmosphere to celebrate meeting new friends.

Peep-peep, pao!Kaela Kimura

TV anime “Hanakappa” opening theme “Pi-Pi-Pao!” video

Kaela Kimura is in charge of the new opening theme for the anime Hanakappa, currently airing on NHK Educational TV (E-Tele).

This work, filled with happiness and fun, portrays the children’s stories set in Hanahana Land through an exciting melody and heartwarming lyrics.

Incorporating memorable melodies she created in her childhood, the song is packed with Kaela Kimura’s passion for music.

Beloved as the new opening theme for Hanakappa since November 2024, it is also slated to be included in Kaela Kimura’s 20th-anniversary album, “KAELA KIMURA 20th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL BOX.” It’s perfect for morning gatherings at nursery schools and kindergartens, as well as for singing and dancing together with children.

Let's hold handsNoriyuki Makihara

Song: “Let’s Hold Hands” … 4-year-olds (Kiku Class)

This song is a warm and gentle piece that stays close to children’s hearts.

The lyrics are simple yet deeply meaningful, softly reminding us of the importance of holding hands.

Born from efforts to support recovery after the Great East Japan Earthquake, the song was released in 2011 and resonated with many people.

Designed so children can sing it easily, it’s perfect for events at nurseries and kindergartens, as well as for everyday childcare.

If everyone holds hands and sings together, it will surely become a wonderful time filled with smiles.

Happy ChildrenSatoko Yamano

[Viral on TikTok!] Original Vocal: Happy Children

This song is striking for its gentle, warm melody and lyrics that express the pure feelings of children.

It celebrates the children’s mysterious, almost magical power—the wonderful ability to bring smiles to those around them.

Satoko Yamano’s clear vocals blend beautifully with the lively voices of the Mori no Ki Children’s Choir.

Included on the album “Aozora SONGS,” released in April 2014, the song features lyrics by Toshihiko Shinzawa and music by Hirotaka Nakagawa.

It’s a tune that eases the nerves of children entering new environments, such as entrance or opening ceremonies, and invites everyone to sing along with joy.

Please give this heartwarming track a listen—perfect for preschool and kindergarten teachers and children to enjoy together.

The Turtle’s ExcursionLyrics by Toshihiko Shinzawa / Music by Hirotaka Nakagawa

Let’s sing at home: “The Turtle’s Field Trip”

An adorable song starring a laid-back turtle, its bright and breezy melody is sure to soothe the heart.

The scenes—like getting a backpack ready three days before a field trip, and finally arriving at the meeting spot around noon—are brimming with humor that makes you smile.

With lyrics by Toshihiko Shinzawa and music by Hirotaka Nakagawa, the piece was first released to the world in 1994 on the album “Sora to Tomodachi,” and has since become widely loved in kindergartens and nursery schools.

In November 2021, it was also included on the album “Toshihiko Shinzawa & Hirotaka Nakagawa Songs <30th Anniversary Commemorative Children’s Chorus Edition>,” celebrating 30 years of their partnership.

It’s a fun song through which children can learn the value of going at their own pace.