#Japan #Tokyo #community support #Childcare #Disaster Prevention

Nurturing Disaster Preparedness for Children

On January 31, a significant event titled "Kimi to Ka ni Project: Childcare Disaster Prevention Festival" will be held at the Tokyo Disaster Prevention Park to observe the "Day for Protecting Children in Childcare Disaster." Initiated by the Social Welfare Corporation, Hoikuno Terakoya (based in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, represented by Director Tomoko Fujimi), this event emphasizes the importance of reconsidering how to safeguard the lives of infants and toddlers as disaster memories resurface.

January marks poignant anniversaries: two years since the Noto Peninsula earthquake, and thirty-one years since the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, with March approaching as the fifteenth anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake. While disaster awareness grows, childcare workers face significant burdens and isolation as they strive to protect children.

The Kimi to Ka ni Project

The Kimi to Ka ni Project was created from the voices of childcare workers who wish to nurture disaster preparedness skills from within the childcare sector. It introduces a memorable and fun catchphrase for children, summarizing vital behaviors during disasters: “Listen, See, Stop, Think, Escape (Kimi to Ka ni).” This is not a prohibition like other phrases but a proactive guideline to help children learn how to protect themselves.

For infants and toddlers, these five actions are crucial as they begin understanding self-preservation. The project has attracted passionate childcare workers across the nation, including those with disaster prevention qualifications, working collectively to promote this initiative.

Background of the Event

In recent years, reports on inadequate childcare have increased, intensifying scrutiny on childcare workers. Despite this harsh reality, many workers are dedicated to safeguarding children amid overwhelming responsibilities. A common sentiment among these devoted professionals is a steadfast commitment to protecting children. The Kimi to Ka ni Project stemmed from their pure desire to prioritize child safety.

The project is centered on the new disaster catchphrase, utilizing tools like picture books, songs, and games developed by the childcare workers themselves. It is believed that if they can create effective educational materials, they will have the power to transform the state of childcare in Japan.

Declaring January 31 as "Day for Protecting Children in Childcare Disaster" emphasizes the need for society to collectively consider how to safeguard infants and young children, especially during this high-awareness season for disasters.

To amplify this message, the project launched a crowdfunding campaign to garner more support. Thanks to many empathetic contributors, they reached their goal of 1 million yen on November 22, enabling the event's realization.

Engaging Programs on Event Day

The event, held from 1 PM to 3 PM, will feature hands-on learning programs:

• - Disaster Card Game for Preschoolers
• - Kimi to Ka ni Exercise to Learn Evacuation Actions
• - Storytelling with Project-produced Picture Books
• - Disaster Play by Active Childcare Workers
• - Introduction to Childcare-Specific Disaster Supplies

Participants will receive special items like the "Kimi to Ka ni Picture Book" and the Disaster Card Game. The event promises a fun approach to learning disaster preparedness, followed by a tour of the Tokyo Disaster Prevention facility for interested attendees.

Building a Supportive Network

The goal extends beyond organizing the event. It aims to foster a supportive network of childcare workers nationwide, enhancing collaboration during emergencies. This ongoing effort is believed to ensure that childcare environments evolve into safer and more forward-thinking spaces.

By acting on their convictions, childcare workers aim to transform the future of childcare. This event marks a crucial first step in that journey.