[For 4-year-olds] Popular and classic songs to sing at recitals and seasonal events
By the time they turn four, children show growth in many ways: they can listen to stories and words and let their imaginations soar, and they become able to express their feelings and thoughts in words.
Through music, we hope they encounter many words and melodies and grow healthy in both mind and body.
Here are some highly recommended songs that are perfect for four-year-olds.
We’ve gathered a wide range of genres: songs that feel exhilarating to sing, songs with storylines that spark imagination, and songs that express feelings for family and friends.
These selections are great not only for everyday childcare settings but also for recitals and events!
Find songs that suit the children, and be sure to have fun singing together.
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[For 4-year-olds] Popular and classic songs to sing at recitals and seasonal events (21–30)
I wish it were so.Lyrics by Takao Ide / Music by Wakako Fukuda
The song “Sou dattara ii no ni na,” which sings about all kinds of dreams like “I wish it were like this” and “I wish it were like that,” has lyrics imagining how fun it would be if your house were like that, if it were Christmas all the time, or if you knew a wizard.
Just like this song, there are surely many children with delightful dreams.
It’s wonderful to make time to sing while imagining your own dreams.
Add some choreography to match the lyrics and try singing it at recitals or during everyday activities!
Hello, my friends.Mariko Takahashi, Young Fresh
Hello, My Friends was selected as the ending theme for the 1990 season of Hirake! Ponkikki and has become widely beloved.
The lyrics imagine the lives of people overseas whom we haven’t met yet and dream of the day we can become friends.
Try approaching it while enjoying the fun of picturing places you haven’t actually visited.
It might also spark an interest in foreign countries and the wider world.
By the way, the song leans toward a ballad style, so it’s perfect when you’re in the mood to sing something relaxed.
[For 4-year-olds] Popular and classic songs to sing at recitals and seasonal events (31–40)
My precious friendYuichiro Hanada, Maya Nagata
A gentle song depicting warm bonds of the heart was born on NHK Educational TV’s “Okaasan to Issho” in September 2024.
Sung by Yuichiro Hanada and Maya Nagata, the piece conveys precious time with friends and the spirit of supporting one another, set to a poppy, friendly melody.
The warm vocals produced by D.
W.
Nicols resonate with children, making it a popular choice for kindergarten and nursery school performances.
Also included on the album “NHK Okaasan to Issho Saishin Best Hyuurara Bunbun!,” this track is a recommended song to enjoy with family and teachers, enriching moments of togetherness.
SketchAimyon
As the theme song for the film “Doraemon: Nobita’s Picture-Perfect Story,” Aimyon delivers vocals filled with warm friendship.
This work depicts the precious memories in children’s hearts, set to a gentle melody.
It captures picture-like moments—watching over Nobita with affection as he dozes off during everyday life with Doraemon.
Released simultaneously with the movie in March 2025, this song is recommended as a tender track that parents and children can enjoy together, and as a lovely memory for your child’s first birthday.
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.
Friend, friendLyrics/Composition: Hiroshi Yamazaki
Written and composed by Hiroshi Yamazaki, this heartwarming song centers on the theme of friendship.
Set to a bright and approachable melody, the lyrics express the bonds and gratitude shared with friends.
It is included on the album “Arigatou Kokoro o Komete,” released by King Records, and is often sung on special occasions such as kindergarten entrance and class advancement ceremonies.
Because it can be sung with hand claps, it also helps foster a sense of unity among children.
It’s a perfect song for an entrance ceremony, so consider adding it to your program.
Peep-peep, pao!Kaela Kimura
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.