#Japan #Tokyo #KADOKAWA #YOMY #Dialogic Reading

Fostering Individuality: A Unique Workshop for Children

In an era dominated by AI providing quick answers, the importance of nurturing children’s ability to express their thoughts cannot be overstated. KADOKAWA’s newly released book, Books that Nurture Individuality Through Dialogue, opens the door for families to engage in meaningful conversations while reading together.

On August 11, following the book’s release on August 10, an exciting workshop will be held in Aoyama, Tokyo. This event is organized by YOMY, an innovative company led by Riko Yasuda, dedicated to enhancing children's communication skills through dialogic reading. Children and their parents will be invited to participate in a workshop designed to encourage children’s responses to open-ended questions through storytelling and play.

The Shift in Educational Landscape

The proliferation of generative AI has shifted the perception of the value of “finding the right answer.” While AI excels at providing quick solutions, the opportunities for children in Japan to articulate their own thoughts are scarce both at home and in school settings. Despite the recognized significance of bonding over picture books, many families often read through a book and close it without wider discussion.

Research on Dialogic Reading from institutions like Harvard University emphasizes encouraging children to express their thoughts by simply asking, “What do you think?” This approach helps children think critically and articulate their ideas effectively. YOMY aims to adapt this method specifically for Japanese families in their new publication.

The Power of Individuality

The workshop serves as an experiential learning opportunity for children to embrace their uniqueness. Participants will dive into the story of Funkorogasa-z, a beloved picture book published by KADOKAWA. The focus of the workshop will illustrate how children can respond to the story when the main character is told to abandon their joy, prompting questions that encourage personal reflection like, “What would you do?”

After engaging with the book, the children will partake in a creative drawing activity titled “jumping, bouncing, swimming…” in which they’ll invent their own unique bugs based on their individual skills and share their creations with their peers. Here, the emphasis is on valuing each child’s unique expression, celebrating that solutions can differ from one child to another. It is an inspiring moment where the joy of self-expression comes alive.

Event Highlights

The Books that Nurture Individuality launch event and workshop aims at cultivating dialogue and individuality amongst children.

Event Details:

• - Event Name: Workshop Celebrating the Release of Books that Nurture Individuality
• - Date: August 11, 2026 (Tuesday, Public holiday)
• - Time: 14:00 to 16:00 (doors open at 13:40)
• - Location: Overlap, 5th Floor, Pola Aoyama Building, 2 minutes walk from Aoyama-ichome Station, Tokyo Metro
• - Target Audience: Children from kindergarten to 3rd grade and their parents
• - Admission Fee: Free (Attendees must purchase or reserve the book in advance and bring it along)
• - Registration: Peatix

Members of the media are encouraged to cover this exciting learning experience where children will articulate their responses to open-ended questions. After the workshop, there will be a press opportunity with the author to discuss the themes of the book and insights from the event.

About the Book

Books that Nurture Individuality Through Dialogue (Dialogic Reading) will be available for purchase on August 10, 2026, for 1,980 JPY. The text incorporates practical examples and age-appropriate questioning, allowing families to begin their journey towards better dialogue instantly. It serves not only as a guide for reading but as an opportunity for parents to connect with their children’s growth.

Riko Yasuda, the author and leader of YOMY, aims to inspire children to think critically and express themselves freely, navigating the landscape of effective childhood education against the backdrop of societal shifts brought on by AI and technological advancements.

The Future at YOMY

Through programs like YOMY!, the company is laying the groundwork for innovative educational experiences that prioritize children’s voices and individuality. By fostering confident self-expression, they aim to cultivate a generation ready to shape its own future in a rapidly changing world.

YOMY is not just an educational platform, but a supportive community working towards a future where every child can express themselves in a world that celebrates their unique perspectives.