#Japan #Tokyo #Sunow #Personal School

Creating Space for Individuality

In the heart of Tokyo, a unique initiative takes root: Personal School Sunow. Its mission is straightforward yet profound—to cultivate environments where both adults and children can truly be themselves. In a world bustling with people, it is vital to prioritize the individuality of each person, fostering a sense of community where hearts connect and overlap. This vision aligns with April Dream, a campaign encouraging the expression of dreams on April 1st, and is championed by the non-profit organization, be Place.

Understanding the Need for Personal School Sunow

Over recent years, Japan has observed a growing number of children facing difficulties attending school, leading to the familiar term “school refusal.” While traditional schooling is undeniably valuable for many children, it does not suit everyone. Recognizing this, the creators of Sunow believe it’s crucial to offer more than just a binary choice between “going to school” or “not going to school.” There must be accessible spaces where children can feel secure and at ease.

At Sunow’s free school, children do not just engage in structured learning; the environment allows them to play, converse, and even spend time doing nothing at all, all at their own pace. This isn’t about providing something extraordinary but instead ensuring there’s a place where understanding is mutual and self-discovery can flourish. The presence of a safe haven allows individuals to gradually reclaim their sense of self.

A Welcoming Space

Having a place that feels right is essential. It creates a sense of belonging and assures children that they are not alone in their journey. Such sentiments can lead to taking the next steps forward. The ultimate aim is for children to reconnect with their true selves, cultivating their ability to create their own spaces in life.

Sunow envisions the free school not as an isolated entity but as an integral part of the cultural fabric of the community. It seeks to highlight that alternatives to conventional schooling exist, creating a society rich with places that provide comfort outside of home and school. A community like this allows everyone to take a moment to pause, safely rediscover themselves, and continue their personal journeys.

Key Features of Sunow

1. Engagement Rooted in Individual Understanding
The experienced psychologists at Sunow approach each child with care, utilizing their expertise to explore “what can be done now” together. In a nurturing, small-group environment, children learn, play, and engage in discussions tailored to their unique needs. Individual counseling is also provided as required.

2. Time for Connection in Daily Life
Lunch is prepared collaboratively, fostering connection as meals are shared. Children are encouraged to express what they wish to cook, creating a natural environment for interaction. Time spent alone is just as valuable as time spent with others, promoting organic relationships within a supportive framework.

3. Family-Centric Support
Supporting children includes ensuring families feel secure too. The school offers parent consultations led by psychologists and facilitates informal gatherings for parents to connect with one another, nurturing a supportive community.

Getting to Sunow

Location: Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Midorigaoka 3-chome 9-5
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Access: 5-minute walk from Midorigaoka Station on the Tokyu Oimachi Line; 10-minute walk from Okuyama and Okusawa Stations on the Tokyu Meguro Line.
Website: sunow.jp
Instagram: sunow_freeschool
X: sunowfreeschool

Director’s Vision

Yusuke Sano, the director of Sunow, shares a pivotal thought: “You don’t have to fit into the world. What does it mean to be true to yourself in this environment?” This concern was one he grappled with during his teaching career and now addresses as a psychologist through the establishment of Sunow. He emphasizes the importance of providing a “safe place” while nurturing the ability to create one’s own space in the future. Sano hopes that such environments will gradually expand within communities.

Company Overview

Organization: General Incorporated Association be Place
Director: Yusuke Sano
Location: 3-9-5 Midorigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-0034
Established: November 18, 2024