#Japan #Itabashi #Itabashi Ward #Boku to Moyamoya #Kitano Elementary

Promoting Children's Mental Health Through Storytelling

On September 1, 2023, Kitano Elementary School in Itabashi Ward commenced its second semester with a special read-aloud of the emotional children's book, Boku to Moyamoya. This event aligns with the ward's ongoing initiative aimed at nurturing children's mental well-being.

Boku to Moyamoya, published by the Itabashi Ward in June 2023, is designed to help children recognize and express their emotions. The story centers on a character named Shikaku-kun, who encounters trusted adults, Daichi-san and Taiju-san. Through these interactions, he learns the significance of discussing his feelings and seeking guidance from reliable sources. The book serves as a vital tool in promoting education around how to seek help, beneficial for kids navigating emotional hardships.

The reading event was a distinctive effort by Kitano Elementary School, acknowledging that the beginning of the second semester can evoke both excitement and anxiety among students. Following Principal Nakagawa's welcoming remarks, the school's Life Guidance Department presented the story through a combination of screen projections and a short play. This format effectively conveyed crucial messages about emotional challenges, including the idea that it is normal to feel moyamoya and the importance of discussing these feelings with friends, family, or teachers.

Students actively engaged during the session, expressing sentiments such as: "Talking about my feelings helps me feel clearer. I realize that it's important to seek help." These reflections emphasize the vital lesson that no child should hesitate to share their struggles with anyone. The atmosphere was filled with eagerness as the children absorbed the messages in a serious yet enjoyable manner, making it a meaningful and fulfilling experience.

The teachers portraying Shikaku-kun and Taiju-san reinforced the message that students can always reach out when in need, stating, "Feel free to consult us anytime!"

Looking ahead, Itabashi Ward and the Board of Education plan to continue disseminating information about Boku to Moyamoya while thoroughly advancing mental health education for children. This ongoing commitment reflects a broader understanding of the importance of emotional education in the community.

As a note, please be aware that the information presented relates to the press release's time of publication and may differ from current project details.

With such proactive approaches, Itabashi Ward is setting a commendable example in fostering a supportive environment for the mental health of young learners. The read-aloud initiative is not merely a story session; it’s a robust step toward equipping children with the tools they need to navigate their emotions in a positive manner.