Lovely nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs

[February Songs] Introducing children's songs, folk songs, nursery rhymes, and hand-play songs about Setsubun and winter!

Accompanist / Piano InstructorYuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
Keyboard playerSAKI
I play Electone, piano, and piano with vocals, and I upload performance videos to social media like YouTube! I’ve loved Disney music since I was little and have played many pieces on the Electone. I’ve been a fan of GLAY since junior high, and from there I started listening to all kinds of music, both Japanese and international. In Western music, I like Avril Lavigne♫

February brings Setsubun and the chant “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi!” In nurseries and kindergartens, there are likely many chances to sing songs related to Setsubun.

But in fact, there are plenty of songs perfect for February beyond just Setsubun tunes! In this article, we introduce songs connected to February and children’s songs that are perfect for the harshly cold season.

Many of them can be sung with hand-play motions, so children are sure to enjoy them.

Please make use of them on days when it’s too cold to play outside or during music time.

[Songs for February] Introducing children's songs, folk songs, nursery rhymes, and hand-play songs related to Setsubun and winter! (1–10)

white friend(s)Music by Osamu Sakata

White Friends (Okaasan to Issho) - Sung by NEUTRINO (with Lyrics)

White Friends, composed by Osamu Sakata

This is a warm, heartfelt song depicting a child eagerly awaiting the snowmelt.

Created by Osamu Sakata, it was broadcast on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho” in 2020.

The snow is personified as a “white friend,” tenderly expressing scenes of parting and reunion.

The lyrics, which are close to the hearts of young children, and the friendly melody are distinctive features.

The song evokes the transition from winter to spring, making it enjoyable for both adults and children.

It’s perfect for parents and kids to sing together, so why not hum along as a family and warm up on a cold day?

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Forest Soup ShopComposed by: Takeshi Ike

[Children’s Song] The Forest Soup Shop

Forest Soup Shop Composer: Takeshi Ike

Set in a soup shop deep in the forest, this warm-hearted song depicts animals gathering to joyfully make soup together.

Its lyrics, which convey the blessings of nature, the value of cooperation with friends, and the fun of cooking, resonate deeply with children.

The piece was released in June 1995 as the B-side to Yoko Ishida’s single “Choppiri Chef Kibun.” Takeshi Ike’s light, friendly melody is structured so that children can easily sing and dance along.

It’s a wonderful song that supports children’s growth, perfect for preschool and kindergarten performances as well as for use in family food education at home.

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Calendar MarchComposer: Kazuko Fukuda

♪ Calendar March <with gestures> In January, let the snow fall a lot; In the garden of February, adonis flowers bloom 〜 ♪ [Children’s song / nursery rhyme]

Calendar March, composed by Kazuko Fukuda

This piece is a song packed with ideas that make learning the flow of the year fun.

From January to December, the lyrics weave in the characteristics and events of each month in a memorable way.

With a bright, lively march-style melody, it features a rhythm that makes it easy for children to sing along.

Since it was introduced on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho” in 1973, this piece has been loved by many children and their parents.

February is presented as the season when Adonis ramosa (Fukujusou) blooms.

On cold winter days or when spending time indoors, why not try singing it together with your child?

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[Songs for February] Introducing nursery rhymes, folk songs, children’s songs, and hand-play songs related to Setsubun and winter! (11–20)

Brr!Composed by: Boku to Kimi.

[January February Winter Hand Play] Brrr brrr! ≪Must Read≫ Tips and variations for use in childcare are listed in the description below ↓ Lyrics/Composition: Boku to Kimi.

Brrr! Music by: Me and You.

Beloved as a perfect fingerplay song for the cold winter, this piece lets children sing happily while moving their bodies.

Its lyrics express the feeling of shivering from the cold, paired with matching motions, and it was created with use in nurseries and kindergartens in mind.

It is reportedly sung during childcare activities and concerts, and is widely enjoyed.

February, when cold winter days continue, is a season with more time spent indoors.

Singing and dancing to this song with children during that time will make it fun and help warm up their bodies.

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chocolateMusic by Mika Kutsuna

Chocolate [hand play song]: Recommended for February Valentine’s Day

Chocolate, composed by Mika Kutsuna

When you listen to this song, sweet memories of Valentine’s Day come flooding back, don’t they? The track crafted by Mika Katsuna beautifully captures both the sweetness of chocolate and the bittersweetness of love.

Set to a rhythmic melody, it feels as if the feelings of someone in love have been turned directly into lyrics.

Released on February 28, 2023, this piece is perfect for the Valentine’s season.

Just by listening, both those giving and receiving chocolate are sure to feel their hearts race with excitement.

It’s a heartwarming song that’s perfect for enjoying February festivities—be sure to give it a listen.

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hail (small hailstones)Composition: Tei Yanada

Arare (♪ Kon kon kon kon, hail is falling) by Himawari 🌻 with lyrics | Children's song |

Arare, composed by Tei Yanada

This is a children’s song that charmingly portrays arare—hail, a wintertime tradition in Japan.

Born in the 1920s, the song uses onomatopoeia like “konkon” and “parari” to depict the sound of hail falling, delighting children’s playful imaginations.

Its lively rhythm and bright melody instantly conjure up the scene of hail coming down.

It’s widely loved in schools and music education, and is often sung in preschools and kindergartens during the winter season.

It might also be nice to sing it with your family on a cold day while looking out the window.

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Yuki said they like rain boots.Composed by Akira Yuyama

Yuki Likes Galoshes [Children’s Song] Lyrics: Yoshiko Kayama / Music: Akira Yuyama

Yuki Says She Likes Rain Boots — Music by Akira Yuyama

Composed by Akira Yuyama, this piece is a charming children’s song that depicts the joyful scenes of kids on a snowy day.

The lyrics weave in images of them hopping around in boots and feeling the chill of the snow, conjuring up a winter landscape just by listening.

Its lively rhythm and friendly melody make it easy for children to remember, making it perfect for music activities in preschools and kindergartens.

Listening to this song might even make you look forward to playing outside, even in the cold season.

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