#Japan #Shibuya #Kyoto University #Nobuko Tabe #Booko Publishing

Rethinking Parenting: A Unique Approach to Raising Twins

In a society increasingly focused on early education and academic performance, Nobuko Tabe's inspiring journey serves as a fresh perspective on parenting. Author of the upcoming book How My Twins Passed Kyoto University by Parenting from a Photographer's View, Tabe shares her experiences navigating the challenges of raising twins without relying on traditional measures of success like standardized test scores or early educational programs.

The Beginning of a Journey

Nobuko became a mother to twins unexpectedly. Immersed in the world of motherhood, she occasionally experienced feelings of self-doubt, particularly as she grappled with the pressures of contemporary educational trends that often emphasize early achievement. In her experiences, she noticed a growing “early education boom” where many households are eager to introduce their children to subjects like English and mathematics at a young age.

As the concept of “early education” gained traction, many parents began to shift their focus towards how to acquire knowledge earlier and enhance their children's academic profiles. In stark contrast to this, Tabe adopted a philosophy centered around “drawing out” her twins’ innate strengths rather than adding more expectations to their educational journey. Through careful observation of her sons’ natural interests and nurturing these aspects, she managed to lead them both to the prestigious Kyoto University.

Navigating the Challenges

Despite her successful outcome, Tabe's path was fraught with obstacles. During the middle school entrance exam preparations, she faced a significant challenge: a 10-point discrepancy between her twins' academic scores. Instead of pushing her sons harder or frantically trying to increase their grades, she chose to create an environment that recognized and catered to each child's unique individuality and potential.

Tabe emphasizes the importance of supporting a child’s current abilities rather than imposing parental ideals upon them. This philosophy is grounded in the “seeing skills” she developed throughout her career as a photographer. Tabe likens her parenting approach to her work behind the lens. Just as a photographer captures the true essence of a subject, she aimed to understand and nurture each of her sons for who they are.

The Photographer’s Perspective in Parenting

One of the core tenets of Tabe’s book is her unique “photographer’s perspective.” In photography, the ability to observe and appreciate the subject’s natural beauty is crucial. This concept extends to her parenting style, which she articulates through seven distinct methods in her book. Among these are:

• - Engaging, not just enjoying: Instead of simply having fun, she encourages her children to find fascination in experiences.
• - Communicating emotion, not just praise: Rather than mere compliments, she aims to convey the emotional depth of experiences.
• - The power of perspective: Tabe emphasizes the importance of both close observation and wide-ranging views in understanding her children.

By showcasing how she has integrated her experiences from the field of photography into daily parenting practices, Tabe opens a door to new avenues of child-rearing for parents today.

A Guiding Light in Parenting

In a world overflowing with parenting information, Tabe's book challenges readers not to get swept away by external advice but to reflect on their own child’s needs first. She suggests shifting the direction of thought—from “how can we teach our children better using outside resources?” to “how can we leverage our children’s unique traits to guide their learning?”

Through this shift in perspective, Tabe found a more relaxing and authentic path to raising her twins, ultimately discovering how to embrace her distinctive parenting style.

Voices of Support and Resonance

As Tabe’s message resonates with many parents, she has received an outpouring of support and shared experiences. Parents resonate with her insights, citing the importance of trusting their children and sharing joy in the learning process. Tabe’s unique viewpoint as a photographer provides refreshing insights, revealing previously unknown facets of parenting.

About Nobuko Tabe

Nobuko Tabe is a mother of identical twin boys and a professional photographer renowned for her coaching skills. After studying at Aoyama Gakuin University, she successfully transitioned from the corporate world into photography. Tabe found herself dedicating her time to parenting when she became pregnant with twins. Today, as a freelancing photographer, she also conducts classes on photography for mothers and supports various educational initiatives.

The forthcoming book How My Twins Passed Kyoto University by Parenting from a Photographer's View aims to inspire parents to rethink their conventional approaches to child-rearing, encouraging them to celebrate their children’s unique journeys.

Book Details

• - Title: How My Twins Passed Kyoto University by Parenting from a Photographer's View
• - Author: Nobuko Tabe
• - Publisher: Booko Publishing
• - Release Date: September 23, 2025
• - Price: ¥1,700 (+ tax)
• - Format: A5 format, 216 pages

In a time where early education trends dominate discussions surrounding parenting, Tabe’s unique insights present a refreshing opportunity to reconsider how we shape the future for our children.