Learning a new language can be a fun and rewarding experience for children. Japanese, in particular, is a fascinating language with a rich cultural background. In this article, we’ll explore some simple Japanese words and phrases that are perfect for kids starting their language learning journey.
こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Hello
みんな、こんにちは！
This is the most common greeting in Japanese and can be used any time between late morning and early evening. It’s a friendly way to say hello.
さようなら (Sayōnara) – Goodbye
じゃあね、さようなら。
Although there are many ways to say goodbye in Japanese, “sayōnara” is the most well-known and is typically used when you’re parting for a long period of time.
ありがとう (Arigatou) – Thank you
プレゼントをありがとう。
This is a simple and polite way to express gratitude. Kids can use it to thank someone for a gift, a compliment, or any act of kindness.
すみません (Sumimasen) – Excuse me / I’m sorry
すみません、トイレはどこですか？
This versatile phrase can be used to get someone’s attention, apologize, or even ask for help.
はい (Hai) – Yes
お母さん：宿題は終わった？ 子供：はい、終わりました。
“はい” is a simple affirmation and is used in many contexts, just like “yes” in English.
いいえ (Iie) – No
アイスクリームが欲しいですか？ いいえ、結構です。
This word is the standard way to negate something in Japanese and can be used in both formal and informal situations.
名前 (Namae) – Name
あなたの名前は何ですか？
Knowing how to ask and tell names is one of the first steps in making new friends in any language.
学校 (Gakkou) – School
私は学校に行きます。
For kids, school is an important part of life. This word will help them talk about their daily activities.
家族 (Kazoku) – Family
私の家族は四人です。
Family is a universal topic, and learning this word can help children describe their own family members.
犬 (Inu) – Dog
私は犬が好きです。
Many children love pets, and learning the names of common animals can be a delightful part of language learning.
猫 (Neko) – Cat
隣の家には猫がいます。
Just like “dog,” the word for “cat” is another animal-related vocabulary that might be of interest to young learners.
大好き (Daisuki) – Love
私はチョコレートが大好きです。
This word is used to express a strong liking for something. It’s more emphatic than just liking something.
遊ぶ (Asobu) – To play
公園で遊びましょう。
An essential verb for kids, as playing is a universal activity and a great topic of conversation among children.
食べる (Taberu) – To eat
私たちは寿司を食べます。
Food is a central part of Japanese culture. Knowing verbs like “to eat” can help kids talk about their meals and preferences.
飲む (Nomu) – To drink
水を飲みます。
Alongside “to eat,” learning “to drink” helps in describing basic needs and activities.
見る (Miru) – To see / To watch
テレビを見ます。
Children often talk about what they see or what they are watching, making this verb particularly useful.
来る (Kuru) – To come
友達が来ます。
This verb is essential for talking about someone coming to a place, such as a friend coming over to play.
行く (Iku) – To go
私は学校に行く。
“To go” is a basic verb that is highly useful for talking about going to various places, like school or the park.
好き (Suki) – Like
私はアイスクリームが好きです。
Expressing likes and dislikes is a big part of everyday conversation, and “suki” helps children share what they enjoy.
By starting with these simple words and phrases, children can begin to engage with the Japanese language and culture in a meaningful way. With practice and exposure, they’ll be able to expand their vocabulary and start forming their own sentences. Remember, language learning should be a fun and engaging process, especially for kids. Encourage them to use these words in their daily life and to explore further into the fascinating world of Japanese language and culture.
