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Children's manga (子供å'ã'漫ç"», Kodomomuke manga) and children's anime (子供å'ã'アニメ, kodomomuke anime), are Japanese terms which literally mean "manga (or "anime", respectively) directed towards children". Children's manga are also known by the word "Kodomo", or "child". These works are noted for stories that are often very moralistic, teaching children how to behave as good and considerate people and helping them to stay on the right path in life. The episodes are generally stand alone and non-episodic in order to appeal to a child. Doraemon by Fujiko F. Fujio is one of the most notable examples for this manga/anime genre.

Specifics and examples



The very first anime were related to such genre. This genre started in the late 19th century with the production of small, approximately 15-page-long comics in magazines, targeting both boys and girls. These short manga were created as a part of Meiji era's attempt to encourage literacy amongst Japanese children and youth. Children's anime and manga can be divided into four categories. First category is the anime and manga adaptations of the Western legends, tales etc. For example, World Masterpiece Theater. Those works can be quickly understood by non-Japanese viewers. Most of them are TV series. Despite them being popular, they aren't particularly helpful for understanding Japanese anime specifics. They are being made by examples of classical American or Soviet cartoons, respectively treating the spirit and fabula of the adopted work.

The second category is unique to Japan and is not readily understood by non-Japanese viewers. These are manga adaptations and original works. They use linguistic gags and contain references to Japanese society. They are in some ways similar to American animation like South Park or The Simpsons. An example is Chibi Maruko-chan. Within the storyline, these works contain shounen elements.

The third category are cute anime popular amongst girls. For example, Hello Kitty or Bottle Fairy. Another category that is closer to shounen includes Pokémon. These shows have a connection with popular video game and toy markets, and have the best commercial success.

Today there are magazines such as CoroCoro Comic, first published by Shogakukan, which targets boys audience, especially in elementary school. There is also Kodansha's Comic Bonbon, which also published children's manga. Both of these magazines are released monthly in Japan. Popular children's manga also is reinvented as anime and is accompanied by a plethora or merchandise. Despite its being aimed at children, children's anime and manga is also being popular amongst older audience. Similarly, shōjo anime like Tokyo Mew Mew or Shugo Chara are also popular amongst younger audience.

Other Japanese works for children



There are also non-anime things aimed at children in Japan. For example, Inai Inai Baa! or Okaasan to Issho.

Awards



The annual Shogakukan Manga Award and Kodansha Manga Award each include a category for children's manga. The Shogakukan Manga awards first included a category for children's manga in 1981, while the Kodansha Manga awards first included a children's category in 2003.



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