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Transforming Experiences at Kids Festa Tokyo 2026

The upcoming Kids Festa Tokyo 2026, scheduled for April 18 and 19, is unveiling an innovative program known as the Welfare Equipment Exhibition Concierge. This initiative is organized by the Non-Profit Organization EPO, led by chairperson Erika Mori, based in Edogawa, Tokyo, and aims to enhance the experience for families with children facing severe disabilities.

The significance of the Welfare Equipment Exhibition cannot be understated: it serves as a vital platform where these families can explore various products and gather essential information. However, navigating this extensive exhibition can prove daunting due to the sheer size of the venue and the overwhelming amount of information available. Many families often struggle with questions like, “Which equipment is suitable for my child?” or “What should I prioritize given my limited time?” Consequently, there are instances where families fail to fully capitalize on the exhibition's potential.

COCOLON, an initiative within EPO, offers experienced professionals, including pediatric physical and occupational therapists, who will accompany families throughout the exhibition. This allows for tailored guidance based on specific needs, helping families identify suitable products and booths. By acting as an intermediary between manufacturers and families, COCOLON aims to alleviate anxieties such as “What should I look at?” This informed approach ensures that families can obtain necessary information efficiently within their limited time.

Introducing Pre-Consultation Services

This year, COCOLON has introduced a novel pre-consultation service scheduled for April 12. Before the exhibition, families can engage in face-to-face or online consultations. During this session, families will organize their needs, living conditions, and any challenges they face, allowing COCOLON to create a personalized list of products and booths to visit at the exhibition. This proactive strategy transforms the experience from simply “browsing” to having a focused approach where families can effectively compare and evaluate solutions.

Voices from Participants

Participants from the previous year expressed their appreciation for the concierge service, sharing sentiments such as:

• - “I was anxious about attending for the first time, and having someone accompany us eased my worries.”
• - “I attended last year but ended up confused. This time, I have a clear image of what to expect.”
• - “We weren’t planning to look at certain items, but it was reassuring to hear, ‘Let’s try this!’”
• - “It was great to consult on whether certain products were suitable for my child right there in the moment.”

Last year, the concierge service engaged 12 families. The feedback highlighted how the service provided a safe environment to explore and visualize needed equipment. Early registrations for this year indicate that the value of this service is being recognized and appreciated.

Event Details

Welfare Equipment Exhibition Concierge

• - Dates: April 18 (Sat) 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM / April 19 (Sun) 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• - Venue: Ariake GYM-EX, Koto City, Tokyo
• - Capacity: Max 10 families per day, with 2 families per time slot
• - Registration: Please check the COCOLON online site.
• - Fees:

- Consultation Plan: Free for members, 500 yen for general admission
- Accompanying Plan: Free for members, 2000 yen for general admission

Pre-Consultation Meeting [Children's Development Support Room]

• - Date: April 12 (Sun) 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• - Venue: COCOLON BASE or online
• - Location: 7-21-16 Shinozaki, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo, 2F
• - Capacity: Max 10 families per day, with 2 families per time slot
• - Fees:

- Members: 1000 yen
- General Admission: 2000 yen
- Free for those using the accompanying plan during Kids Festa

Note: Membership is exclusive to fee-based COCOLON members.

About COCOLON

COCOLON stands as a community for families of children with severe disabilities. It not only fosters connection among families but also aims to amplify their participation in society through various events and seminars. Last year alone, they hosted 36 events, reaching 1,054 participants, earning recognition such as the Encouragement Award at the 19th Kids Design Awards.

About EPO

The Non-Profit Organization EPO has been at the forefront of supporting children with severe disabilities since 2016. With facilities in Tokyo and an expanding community in place, they continue to champion an environment where children, their siblings, and families can thrive together. An ongoing commitment to building welcoming and inclusive spaces ensures that all children can enjoy life’s adventures, regardless of their individual challenges.