#Japan #well-being #fatherhood support #Niiza #Niiza Child-Rearing

Exploring Fatherhood and Well-Being: An Online Forum

On July 8, 2026, the Niiza Child-Rearing Network will host a pivotal online forum aimed at those involved in child-rearing support. This event, held via Zoom, will delve into the evolving roles of fathers and the concept of well-being in parenting. The forum is designed for local government child-rearing personnel, health nurses, corporate HR representatives, and those deeply invested in fatherhood support.

Background and Purpose of the Forum

Recent legal reforms have seen an increase in the number of men taking paternity leave, but the dialogue surrounding the deeper implications of paternal involvement remains insufficient. It goes beyond merely taking time off; the impact that engaging in childcare has on men’s own well-being and its effects on management within corporations and the health of our communities is significant. The Niiza Child-Rearing Network, which has years of research experience on fatherhood support both domestically and internationally, aims to address this topic through expert insights and personal narratives.

This year's theme centers on "The Reality of Fatherhood and Men's Well-Being." As an expert speaker, Professor Yu Shibata from Kyoto University will share insights from sociology, particularly focusing on happiness, intimacy, and social security. His extensive research in these fields makes him a valuable contributor to discussions surrounding fathers' emotional states.

Additionally, Takayuki Akiba, a copywriter with firsthand experience of taking parental leave three times, will present a real-life case study. His narrative will include the challenges faced during these periods and how they contributed to his current role in a managerial position.

The forum will also provide attendees with the chance to obtain an awareness-raising poster aimed at encouraging fatherhood support, designed by Akiba, which can be utilized in their own communities or workplaces.

Program and Speakers

• - Lecture: "Fatherhood Well-Being" by Professor Yu Shibata (Kyoto University, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies)

- Specializing in sociology and social policy; author of works like Child-Rearing Support Saves Japan

• - Case Study Presentation: "The Reality of Fatherhood - Third Paternity Leave" by Takayuki Akiba (Corporate Copywriter and Parental Leave Advocate)
• - Roundtable Discussion: "Considering Happiness for Fathers"
• - Q&A Session

Event Overview

• - Date: July 8, 2026 (Wednesday)
• - Time: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM (JST)
• - Format: Online (Zoom)
• - Capacity: 80 participants (first-come, first-served, registration closes on July 5)
• - Target Audience: Health nurses, child-rearing staff from municipalities, HR representatives, and anyone interested in fatherhood support initiatives.
• - Registration Fee: 5,500 JPY (including tax)
• - More Information and Registration: Event Link

About Niiza Child-Rearing Network

Founded in 2004, the Niiza Child-Rearing Network has been collaborating with researchers and experts to study fatherhood support efforts, disseminating findings to government entities and the media. They conduct advanced programs like "Papa's Feelings and Mama's Feelings" and maintain a longstanding relationship with Canada's fatherhood support organization, Dad Central, bringing global insights to their initiatives.

Location: Niiza City, Saitama Prefecture, Japan 1-4-5-2F Sugazawa
Official Website: CCN Niiza Child-Rearing

Contact Information

For inquiries, please reach out to:

• - Niiza Child-Rearing Network (Contact: Takeuchi)
• - Phone: 048-482-5732
• - Fax: 048-482-5731
• - Email: [email protected]