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A Unique Table Tennis Experience for Kids with Jun Mizutani

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Tokyo Children's Association recently organized a special table tennis event for preschoolers, featuring none other than Olympic gold medalist Jun Mizutani as the instructor. This program, held in collaboration with the Japan Table Tennis Association, aimed to instill a sense of joy and challenge among the young participants. The event took place in Tokyo and attracted children from various licensed daycare centers and accredited kindergartens.

Welcoming a New Sport

The Tokyo Children's Association has always prioritized providing children with new experiences, particularly the chance to learn from top athletes through their Sports Project. Throughout the year, children aged five from 24 different facilities engage in about ten different sports. This initiative not only fosters a spirit of challenge but also helps children experience the joy of achievement.

As part of this program, table tennis was newly introduced, made possible through the collaboration with the Japan Table Tennis Association, supported by renowned brands like BUTTERFLY, Nittaku, and VICTAS. This innovative approach allowed preschoolers to engage in a hands-on table tennis experience like never before.

A Fun-Filled Experience

The event was designed with the children's heights in mind. A special area was created within the daycare, mimicking a table tennis court using tables and oversized balls. The format encouraged children to enjoy the learning process, incorporating fun elements to facilitate their engagement.

On the day of the event, the activities were managed by the team from BUTTERFLY, who introduced table tennis through original picture stories crafted for young audiences. As Jun Mizutani joined in, the kids were first introduced to hand swings by imitating what they saw—a charming sight that left smiles on everyone's faces.

Following an initial warm-up, Mizutani provided guidance on proper grip and striking techniques. This interaction led to delightful moments where some children managed to rally for over a hundred exchanges, filling the atmosphere with joyful cheers. The event concluded with energetic high-fives, leaving everyone with a sense of accomplishment and gleaming smiles.

Encouraging Messages

Regarding the experience, Mizutani expressed, “This was my first time conducting a session at a daycare, and the energetic responses from the kids provided me with immense energy in return. I aimed to convey that while one might not achieve everything alone from the outset, with the support of teachers and peers, perseverance can lead to success. I hope many of the children could feel the joy of table tennis through this program.”

Yoshihito Miyazaki, Executive Director of the Japan Table Tennis Association, added, “This is our first attempt to conduct such a program in a daycare. It’s vital for children to have the chance to interact with top athletes. Listening to their stories, witnessing their skills, and experiencing the sport firsthand can pivotally influence their lives. If even one child becomes a fan of table tennis after this event, I’ll consider it a success.”

Masayuki Kikuchi, Chairman of the Tokyo Children's Association, stated, “We cherish providing numerous ‘first experiences’ for children. In the realm of sports, meeting elite athletes is about fostering a spirit of challenge, dreaming big, and expanding interests. Many children have yet to experience playing table tennis, despite its increasing visibility on television. Transforming knowledge into practical experience is crucial, and we are grateful for all the support from the Japan Table Tennis Association and collaborating brands.”

About the Tokyo Children's Association and Its Sports Project

The Sports Project is designed for five-year-old classes, allowing them to experience around ten different sports over the year. By receiving direct guidance from top athletes, children link these ‘first’ challenges to their confidence in future endeavors. The sports included range from table tennis, gymnastics, and rugby, to cheerleading and sumo wrestling, focusing on the joys of trying, achieving, and collaborating.

Collaborating Organizations (2025)

• - Japan Table Tennis Association
• - Japan American Football Association
• - Japan Sports Chanbara Association

The Tokyo Children's Association has nearly a century of experience in childcare and now operates 24 licensed daycare centers in Tokyo. Their mission is to nurture children's life skills in a supportive environment where parents, community, and businesses collaborate. Through partnerships with various sports associations, independent material development, and initiatives in digital education, they continually enhance the learning and growth opportunities for children.

For more information, visit Tokyo Children's Association and their partners such as Japan Table Tennis Association, BUTTERFLY, Nittaku, and VICTAS.