Shodai Hirano's New Role to Enhance Father Support
Shodai Hirano, the representative director of the Daddy Support Association, has recently been appointed as a committee member for the
Co-Parenting Project initiated by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. This initiative aims to create a society that supports fathers from early pregnancy through to parenthood, emphasizing continuous support without gaps.
The
Co-Parenting Project is focused on nurturing a work-life balance that enables both parents to participate in raising their children. The project seeks to address the prevalent single-handed parenting experiences often encountered in professional settings and homes, referred to as 'One-Operation'. By challenging these norms, the project aims to establish environments where both mothers and fathers can share responsibilities according to their preferences and capabilities, contributing to a collaborative parenting culture.
Educational Efforts and Corporate Engagement
Much of the project's approach targets businesses, promoting improved employment conditions and workplace climates that foster shared parenting dynamics. The initiative will provide educational activities and resources for companies, encouraging them to become more participatory in creating environments conducive to equitable parenting.
In his role, Hirano brings a wealth of expertise from his diverse professional background as an industrial physician and obstetrician. After graduating from Keio University’s Medical School, he has contributed significantly to health management strategies in large corporations as well as start-ups. His advocacy focuses particularly on women’s health and the intersection of work and parenting, making him a vital figure in this initiative.
Shodai Hirano's Vision
Hirano expressed his enthusiasm about taking on this new responsibility by stating, _"As someone who has witnessed various challenges faced by working parents, I feel a personal connection to the evolution of the Co-Parenting Project. Since the earlier days of the ‘Ikumen Project’ in 2010, I have observed a gradual acceptance of paternity leave in society. It’s exciting to witness the shifting paradigms on fatherhood now, especially with the release of my 2023 book, ‘Post-Ikumen: Encouraging Parenting from Early Pregnancy’._
He emphasizes the importance of listening to the voices from the workplace and the home to advocate for a more accommodating environment for all parents. His commitment to fostering a society where both mothers and fathers can thrive in their careers while being actively involved in their children's upbringing is evident in his work with the Daddy Support Association.
Daddy Support Association's Impact
Established in December 2022, the Daddy Support Association operates under the motto, _“Supporting Fathers. Protecting Families.”_ The organization offers comprehensive resources about pregnancy, childbirth, and fatherhood to expectant fathers. Hirano, along with two involved fathers who recognized the need for improved parenting conditions, founded the association.
Through leveraging expertise from obstetricians and midwives alongside feedback from fathers, the association strives to create solutions that genuinely resonate with societal needs. Emphasizing male support in parenting, the group aims to close the gap in resources available for fathers, recognizing the importance of their involvement in child-rearing.
The association not only provides knowledge and educational resources but also organizes events focusing on fatherhood support, combining health management consultancy with parenting principles—a unique approach in Japan that aims to promote healthier and more supportive family environments.
Connect with Daddy Support
For further insights, the Daddy Support Association is active on various platforms, including YouTube and their official website, providing valuable resources for fathers. They also share knowledge via social media channels to reach a broader audience, enhancing awareness and participation in their initiatives.
In closing, Hirano’s appointment as a committee member reflects a robust commitment to transforming parenting support within Japan, driving forward an inclusive and collaborative future for all parents.