#Japan #Education #Ikebukuro #After-School

A New Proposal for After-School Activities

In recent years, the landscape of children's education has transformed dramatically, primarily due to the rise in middle school entrance exams and the increasing number of dual-income families. More often than not, children are finding themselves entrenched in a 'competition for knowledge acquisition,' leaving little room for playtime or social interactions with peers. The after-school hours for elementary students, which total over 1,600 hours each year, should ideally serve as a 'golden time' for children to engage in play and creativity. The Ikebukuro Community College's Rieikai After-School program recognizes this need and is gaining strong support from families by valuing the key elements of 'play,' 'learning,' and 'experience.'

Highlights of the Ikebukuro Community College Rieikai After-School Program

1. Play Time: The program offers a nurturing environment where children can interact with friends and play freely.
2. Learning Time: In addition to homework assistance, children are encouraged to develop learning habits through Rieikai's original math and reading programs.
3. Experience Time: Children can safely engage in various activities offered at the Ikebukuro Community College, which enhances their overall after-school experience.

The unique advantage of operating within the community college is that it isn't solely a space for children. It allows for the interaction of three generations, reinforcing social skills while facilitating a diverse range of communication channels.

Variety and Convenience of Experiences

Recently, the trend of using after-school programs has shifted toward integrating multiple options to prevent children from feeling bored in a fixed environment or companionship. The Ikebukuro Community College's After School program, conveniently located directly at Ikebukuro Station, not only makes it easily accessible but also situates itself between home and parents' workplaces, creating a seamless transit experience. Within the curriculum, activities include practical lessons using the rooftop facility for experiments and opportunities for students to engage with external attendees in separate classrooms—providing children with varied and enriching experiences. Such diverse approaches have garnered appreciation from both children and parents alike.

Interaction Between Seniors and Children

At the Ikebukuro Community College, many seniors engage in various classes to deepen their hobbies and knowledge, creating a fulfilling space for self-realization. In modern times, children have fewer opportunities to interact with seniors due to the rise of nuclear family structures. The college fosters intergenerational engagement, where children learn respect and manners from seniors, while seniors are revitalized by the energy and smiles of the younger generation. This unique blend of communication among children, seniors, and parents within the culture school's after-school program creates an invaluable community.

The Ikebukuro Community College Rieikai After-School program emerges as a new choice that combines essential elements of 'play,' 'learning,' and 'experience' to help children expand their potential and keep pace with the future.

Additional Information

Rieikai After-School Program at Ikebukuro School (within Ikebukuro Community College)

• - Location: Strategically located for easy access via JR, Tokyo Metro, Seibu, and Tobu Lines, right at Ikebukuro Station.
• - Convenience: Located on the 8th and 9th floors of the Seibu Ikebukuro Main Store's annex, providing shopping and dining options for families.

Contact Information

For inquiries, please contact Seven Culture Network’s Public Relations Department:

• - Phone: 03-6238-3061 (Weekdays 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
• - Media Relations: Interviews and class coverage arrangements are available for interested media personnel, so please feel free to reach out.