Children Enhance Local Community with Meiko Kids' SDGs Activities

In a remarkable initiative, three facilities under Meiko Kids, specifically the Meiko After-School Club in Sakurazaka Park, Minamioizumi, and Oizumagakuen, have received an award from the Japan Good Conduct Association. This accolade comes in recognition of their ongoing efforts to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the Nerima Ward. Through active participation of the children in local community projects, their bond with community residents has strengthened, fostering a positive impact on society.

Background to the Initiatives

At Meiko Kids, the “Kids SDGs” program is seamlessly integrated into their daily caregiving routines. This unique initiative encourages elementary school children to engage with the SDGs by recognizing them as pivotal to their futures. The program empowers children to devise and implement their own SDG-related activities, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability.

Reasons for Recognition

The SDGs activities carried out by the three after-school clubs have garnered attention due to their focus on local issues. Children at Meiko After-School Clubs actively contemplate community challenges and formulate solutions. They engage in cleaning activities for their neighborhoods, focusing on places they frequent, such as shopping streets and local parks, at least three to five times a week. This ongoing endeavor not only nurtures a habit of dealing with litter and grime but also instills an understanding of environmental conservation among the participants.

Additionally, feedback from local residents shows appreciation for the children's hard work. This recognition bolsters the children's self-esteem and enhances their connection to the community, further facilitating their emotional growth. In a similar vein, they have taken charge of maintaining flower beds in local parks, allowing them to experience the joy of nurturing nature and beautifying their surroundings. These initiatives not only contribute to environmental beautification but also serve as invaluable learning experiences for the children.

The Japan Good Conduct Association awarded Meiko Kids for their sustained and proactive contributions to the community, recognizing the children's capability to effectively participate in local efforts aligned with the SDGs.

Reflections on the Award

This recent award acknowledges two years of dedicated efforts. The children embraced the theme of SDG goal 11—“Sustainable Cities and Communities”—and made it a routine to clean their neighborhoods and tend to parks, while planting beautiful flowers along the way. There were heartwarming moments shared by parents, recalling occasions where children watered the flowers together on weekends. Such initiatives extend the mission of Meiko After-School Clubs deeper into the community, spreading joy and pride.

The award ceremony took place at the Meiji Memorial Hall, which attracted around 100 participants from across the country. The children exhibited a mix of excitement and nervousness as they received their honors. However, their enthusiasm shone through when they proudly responded loudly upon their names being called, accepting their certificates and plaques with great pride. Moving forward, Meiko Kids is committed to continuing its activities with a focus on the idea of building attractive, sustainable communities.

Children's Activities Showcase

Footage and images depict the children involved in their community activities, demonstrating their commitment and enthusiasm.

About Meiko Kids

Meiko Kids provides a comprehensive after-school care system, including transportation and educational activities, aimed at nurturing foundational learning through diverse programs. Their focus is on developing children’s capabilities to realize their dreams, fostering a holistic educational environment. One of Meiko Kids' standout features is their hands-on approach, encouraging children to cultivate a love for learning and self-reliance through engaging daily activities.