Influencer Yuuki Kinoshita Collaborates with Youth on Parenting Videos

In Tokyo, a significant initiative is underway aiming to create a society where individuals can safely and confidently bring children into the world. This is in response to the growing concerns among young people surrounding marriage and parenthood, which have historically been viewed through a lens of anxiety and negative perception. Reports indicate that the city is now focusing on fostering a positive image regarding childbirth and childcare.

This year, a working group comprising university students and young professionals was established to provide valuable insights into the sentiments and ideas of the youth regarding parenting. In a recent endeavor, the group released two new videos themed around "childbirth and childcare," featuring notable parenting influencer, Yuuki Kinoshita. The videos aim to capture the real thoughts and concerns of young people and the parenting community.

Video Overview

1. Street Interview Edition: "Listening to Everyone's Voices"
The working group interviewed young individuals on the streets, discussing their feelings about childbirth and parenting.
Key questions included:
- What do young people in Tokyo feel about having children?
- What experiences do current parents share about raising their children?
This segment delivers genuine voices and concerns from both prospective and current parents.

Main Interview Highlights

From Young People:

- "I have so many goals and dreams that thinking about children feels overwhelming."
- "I think having kids would make life more enjoyable."
- "I would love to know what being a mom truly feels like."

Anxiety About Parenting:

- "I have no clue how to raise a child."
- "While I want children, I worry about the financial implications."
- "I don't feel confident about becoming a parent yet."

From Current Parents:

- "Getting support from local government really helps—it strengthens you."
- "Everyday moments are filled with joy, like when my child runs up to me with excitement."
- "We're in this amazing journey together, and it’s pure happiness watching them grow."

Working Group Insights

They highlighted the importance of capturing the honest thoughts of young individuals. It was suggested that sharing joys derived from parenting could effectively convey the positive aspects of the experience.

2. Roundtable Experience Edition: "Experiencing Parenting with an Influencer"
The second video features Yuuki Kinoshita alongside WG members and parents, engaging in a roundtable discussion centered on the realities of childbirth and parenting.
The segment includes experiences of pregnancy simulation and explorations of supportive community resources like the "Tokyo Child Growth Housing" and the "Child Smiles Spots."
Here, they report back young people's authentic feelings about these aspects of parenting.

Roundtable Highlights

From Young Participants:

- "Social media often portrays parenting as overwhelmingly difficult; I’d like to know how accurate that really is."
- "Understanding costs and financial expectations is a big concern for us."

From Parents:

- "Parenting can be hard, but with challenges come immense love."
- "We wish we had learned more about the changes women go through during pregnancy."
- "I initially thought parenting would drain us financially, but with support, it isn’t as overwhelming as I thought."

Engagement and Experiences

Participants in the roundtable shared how they benefited from community facilities that support family activities. Some expressed surprise and joy about how easy it can be to find resources that make outings with children much more manageable.

About Yuuki Kinoshita

Yuuki Kinoshita is a well-known childcare influencer with a social media following of over two million. As a former single father now raising three children, he shares his journey of parenting with warmth and humor, inspiring many through various media engagements, including events, books, and partnerships.

Viewing Options

The videos can be accessed through the Tokyo Child Policy Promotion Office's website, aiming to promote a supportive environment for parenting as part of the broader "2050 Tokyo Strategy."
Visit Tokyo Child Policy Promotion Office Website