#Japan #Tokyo #Children #Ikugyo

Tokyo's Ikugyo Campaign

In Tokyo, the concept of parenting has transformed into something much more significant than a mere break or vacation; it is now viewed as a pivotal job known as 'Ikugyo.' This term encompasses not only those who are actively engaged in parenting but also those who support them, fostering a collective effort to nurture children, hence the phrase 'Ikugyo-kaiwai' or 'the Ikugyo community.'

To galvanize the residents of Tokyo to participate in this movement, a special campaign has been launched, inviting the public to show their support for 'Ikugyo' through positive messages shared on the social media platform X. The aim is to create a supportive environment that encourages both new and seasoned parents alike.

Campaign Details

1. Special Website

A dedicated webpage for the campaign has been established. It serves as an informational hub where participants can learn more about how to engage and share their messages of support. You can visit it here.

2. Campaign Period

The campaign will run from September 14, 2023 (Monday) at noon until September 30, 2023 (Wednesday) at 11:59 PM. During this time, participants are encouraged to spread their encouraging messages and thoughts regarding 'Ikugyo'.

3. How to Participate

Participation in the campaign is straightforward and relies heavily on community engagement through social media. Here’s how you can join in:
1. Follow the Kodomo Smile Movement on X (@kodomo_smile).
2. Post your supportive message themed around 'Ikugyo' on your X account, adding the hashtags #Ikugyo-kaiwai and @kodomo_smile.
You can find full details on the special website mentioned above.

4. Content of Posts

Participants can share a range of supportive messages directed toward people actively engaged in or about to begin their parenting journeys. Suggested contents include:

• - Messages of encouragement from colleagues, managers, subordinates, or family members aimed at those involved in parenting.
• - Words of support from those with prior parenting experience directed at newcomers.

5. Eligibility

To participate, individuals must be residing, working, or studying in Tokyo, regardless of nationality, age, or gender. This inclusive approach aims to ensure broad community involvement.

6. Prizes

To incentivize participation, 500 lucky individuals will be chosen to receive an Amazon gift card worth 500 yen through a random draw from all eligible posts.

7. Announcement of Winners

Winners will be notified around mid-October via the Kodomo Smile Movement’s X account (@kodomo_smile) to confirm their prizes.

8. Important Notes

For further details and terms of entry, please refer to the campaign's special website. It is crucial to adhere to the outlined guidelines for postings.

Collaboration with Various Entities

Between September 14 and September 30, the city, national government, other municipalities, and various businesses will contribute to this thriving initiative. They will utilize their respective X accounts to disseminate information related to 'Ikugyo' using the specified hashtag #Ikugyo-kaiwai, while also engaging in mutual reposting. This campaign ties into the broader 'Tokyo 2050 Strategy', which focuses on two primary strategies:
1. Promoting policies from the children's perspective.
2. Creating a supportive environment for child-rearing.

This initiative underlines Tokyo's commitment to nurturing its future generations by evolving the perception of parenting from a temporary respite to a fundamental duty that requires societal collaboration.