[Age 5] A roundup of anime for 5-year-olds that will draw them into the story

Shimajirō

Warm Letter Mission (Ages 4–5) <Kodomo Challenge Step> [Shimajiro Channel Official]

Shimajiro is very popular with children.

He originally started as a character for educational content aimed at kids.

The anime focuses on Shimajiro and his friends, and portrays stories about family, friendship, and life at kindergarten.

It’s packed with tips like, “In situations like this, it might be good to say or do something like this.” In addition to the TV anime, there are also animated films and concerts.

Why not enjoy Shimajiro’s stories in a variety of different atmospheres?

Pretty Cure series

"Wonderful Precure!" Ending Theme Song "FUN☆FUN☆Wonderful DAYS!" (Textless ver.)

The anime series Pretty Cure is hugely popular among girls.

It’s a story where ordinary girls are sought out by fairies for help and become warriors called “Pretty Cure” to fight against evil.

The protagonists differ from series to series, but the overall story development is similar, so it’s a good idea to start with whichever Pretty Cure you like.

For girls, the cute battle costumes adorned with frills and ribbons are part of the appeal.

It’s a recommended anime where you can learn about the difference between good and evil and how bonds with friends can become a powerful force.

Pocket Monsters

[Official] Pokémon anime opening theme “Dokimeki Diary”

Pocket Monsters is a story that follows the adventures of Liko, a girl who carries a mysterious pendant; Roy, who holds an enigmatic Poké Ball; and the adventurer team that journeys with them, the Rising Volt Tacklers.

The series shines with its bonds between people and Pokémon and the growth of its protagonists, Liko and Roy, while the battle scenes are also a major highlight.

Unlike the previous series, the new one features both a male and a female lead, making it a show that both boys and girls can relate to and enjoy.

Even if you haven’t seen the previous series, you can still have a great time with this one—so give it a watch if you’re interested!

Nintama Rantarō

Nintama Rantarō 30th Anniversary Broadcast Special PV (Still to Come ver.)

Nintama Rantarō is the story of Rantarō, a boy born into a ninja family who enrolls in the Ninja Academy.

Along with his classmates like Shinbee and Kirimaru, he enjoys his days—often failing but always having fun.

The long-running anime has been on the air since 1993 and is still going, and its unchanging opening theme, “Yūki 100%,” is a song people of all generations have likely heard.

The lively interactions among friends and the humor sprinkled throughout make it a very entertaining show.

Kids also love the ninja theme, so be sure to check it out.

Tom and Jerry

Tom and Jerry | Fresh Air | WB Kids

Tom and Jerry, the wildly popular American characters, star in a cartoon comedy created in 1940.

For over 80 years, they’ve been loved by people all around the world.

Tom the cat is clumsy and a bit of a show-off.

He’s always trying hard to catch Jerry the mouse, but he fails often and is somehow impossible to dislike.

Jerry the mouse looks cute, but he’s sly, quick-witted, and loves to play pranks! This work humorously portrays the slapstick antics of the two.

There’s no dialogue and the story is simple, but the comedic action and snappy, captivating pace make it irresistibly engaging.

It’s an anime that can be enjoyed by a wide range of ages, making it perfect for parents and children to watch together.

Doraemon

“Doraemon the Movie: Nobita’s Earth Symphony” Special PV – Vaundy Theme Song Ver.

Doraemon is a story about a cat-shaped robot from the 22nd century who uses various secret gadgets to save the day.

Doraemon came from the future to help Nobita, an elementary school boy.

Nobita is kind-hearted, but he struggles with studying and sports, lacks self-confidence, and always relies on Doraemon and his gadgets.

The anime began airing in 1979 and is still ongoing, remaining hugely popular.

It’s also known for releasing a movie every year, and it’s an anime that both children and adults can enjoy.

Encyclopedia of Unfortunate Creatures

[PV] The Encyclopedia of Unfortunate Creatures

Zannen na Ikimono Jiten (The Unfortunate Animals Encyclopedia) is an animated series based on a book.

The original books are a popular hit, with new volumes being released one after another.

The content introduces animals’ slightly “unfortunate” traits and behaviors.

When it comes to animals, their mysterious and wondrous sides tend to get the spotlight, but this work deliberately highlights the less impressive aspects.

By exploring a different side of animals, it may spark even more interest.

The animation is produced by NHK Educational TV (E-Tele), and it has also been adapted into a film.

It’s a perfect work for parents and children to learn about animals together.