You can instantly spot the most popular anime among kids! A collection of works that elementary schoolers are crazy about.

Sumikkogurashi

Long PV of the theme song for “Sumikkogurashi the Movie: The Little Wizard in the Blue Moonlit Night” / BUMP OF CHICKEN “Small world”

Sumikkogurashi is a set of characters from San-X that was introduced in 2012.

Did you know its subtitle is “This is where we feel most at home”? The idea was reportedly born from the creator’s doodles during their school days, and that doodle-like looseness and charm have earned it a strong reputation—related merchandise is hugely popular.

In 2019, to celebrate its 7th anniversary, it was adapted into an animated film.

It became a big hit not only with children but also with adults, who said things like “surprisingly deep,” “made me cry,” and “I only went along with my kid, but I was moved and became a fan.” It’s no wonder: despite their cute appearances, the Sumikkogurashi characters are built around concepts with a bittersweet touch—being negative, quirky, or a bit odd—which resonates strongly with adults.

It’s a work I hope parents and children will watch together.

Dr.STONE

TV anime “Dr. STONE” Episode 1: “STONE WORLD”

Dr.

STONE ran in Weekly Shonen Jump for five years starting in 2017.

The series drew buzz again with its 2022 comeback one-shot and gained even more popularity with its TV anime adaptation.

Centered on science yet packed with sci-fi and survival elements, it tells the story of rebuilding civilization from zero after a sudden calamity strikes humanity.

It also includes the signature battle elements of shonen manga, delivering exhilarating developments while showcasing the fun and greatness of science.

With an unpredictable plot from start to finish, it’s an anime I highly recommend to elementary school students who want to experience a deeply engaging story.

SpongeBob

SpongeBob | 36 Minutes of Friendly SpongeBob Moments 🔥 | Nickelodeon Japan

SpongeBob SquarePants is a comedy-heavy animated series that portrays the lives of creatures living in the fictional underwater city of Bikini Bottom.

It’s an American cartoon loved by people of all ages.

Since it’s also broadcast on TV in Japan, many elementary school students may have seen it.

The main character, SpongeBob, is very optimistic and cheerful.

Although he means no harm, various mishaps unfold as he involves those around him—like his best friend Patrick and Mr.

Krabs, the owner of the burger shop where SpongeBob works—making it a show that will have you chuckling.

Curious George

George learns about pitch 🐵 Curious George

The animated series “Curious George” is based on the picture book series “Curious George.” The protagonist, George, is a little monkey, so he doesn’t speak.

But through his gestures and expressive face, you can tell what he wants to do and what he’s thinking.

In these charming stories, George dives into all kinds of adventures and mishaps—and solves them—making the show hugely popular with children! The lack of dialogue sparks the imagination and draws viewers into George’s world.

If you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to give it a try.

Laid-Back Camp

TV Anime “Laid-Back Camp SEASON 3” Opening Video | On Air 04.04

Laid-Back Camp is a story that portrays the friendship and growth of high school students through camping.

Its charm lies especially in the realistic depictions of camping that even beginners can relate to, and the fun way it teaches tips about gear and cooking.

Centered on the main characters Nadeshiko Kagamihara and Rin Shima, watching the group spend leisurely time in nature is soothing in itself.

The gentle everyday scenes and the direction that showcases beautiful landscapes are part of what makes it so popular.

The camp meals and campfire scenes are so appealing that you’ll want to try them yourself, and they can even spark children’s interest in the outdoors.

Talking with friends about your favorite scenes and characters is sure to be a blast, and the series radiates a relaxed, warm atmosphere.

Jujutsu Kaisen

Non-credit opening movie for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen / Second cour opening theme: Who-ya Extended "VIVID VICE"

Jujutsu Kaisen is an anime based on a manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump.

The line and pose for “Domain Expansion” by the popular character Gojo-sensei became such a hot topic that people of all ages copied it.

It’s a dark fantasy battle series that depicts sorcerers fighting to exorcise curses born from negative emotions using jujutsu.

The story follows Yuji Itadori, who possesses extraordinary physical abilities and is discovered to have resistance to special grade curses, drawing him into the world of jujutsu.

The theatrical film adaptation was also a massive hit, earning over 23 billion yen worldwide.

Hanakappa

Hanakappa is an anime mainly aimed at preschoolers and lower elementary school children, but plenty of older kids like it too.

The protagonist is Hanakappa, an elementary school kappa who can make flowers bloom on his head.

The story unfolds in Yamabiko Village, where Hanakappa lives.

The adventures and commotions he experiences are full of appeal for kids! When Hanakappa is in a pinch or needs to solve something, he makes various flowers bloom, so children naturally learn about flowers as well.

The everyday elementary school moments and interactions with friends are also highlights.