#Japan #Setagaya #Art Design Lab #Kodomo Depart #Babytoi

Explore Creativity at Kodomo Depart

On February 7th and 8th, 2026, a fantastic opportunity awaits creative children aged 4-12 at the 'Kodomo Depart' event, hosted by Art Design Lab at HOME/WORK VILLAGE in Setagaya, Tokyo. This unique pop-up DIY store allows children to unleash their imagination by selecting from over 100 materials to create original artwork. Each child's creativity will bring limitless combinations to life.

What is Kodomo Depart?

The Kodomo Depart serves as a temporary workshop where children take on the role of ‘store managers’. They will be actively involved in the creative process, allowing them to explore their artistic talents. By selecting their favorite materials, they create unique pieces of artwork right on the spot!

This event is perfect for sparking excitement and creativity in young minds. The venue, HOME/WORK VILLAGE, is designed to rethink our perspectives on living (HOME) and working (WORK). This multidisciplinary space, housed in a repurposed elementary school, embodies the spirit of collaboration, inviting people from all walks of life to come together and create.

For more details, visit HOME/WORK VILLAGE.

Event Details

• - Date: February 7-8, 2026
• - Time: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Registration ends at 4:00 PM)
• - Target Age: Preschoolers (with guardians) to 6th graders (ages 4-12)
• - Participation Fee: 1,000 JPY (including material costs); payment via PayPay or cash (credit cards not accepted)
• - Discount: 50% off for those who follow the official Art Design Lab accounts on LINE or Instagram at the registration desk.
• - Free Entry: One adult guardian can join for free with each enrolled child managing the store.

A Creative Partnership with Local Businesses

Kodomo Depart not only celebrates creativity but also strengthens community ties, supported by materials from 19 partner companies. From paper, fabric, and wood, to various craft supplies, these resources help foster a nurturing environment for children's creativity.

This collaborative initiative promotes children’s autonomy and creativity through local cultural engagement. The Setagaya ward has recognized this event as beneficial for its efforts in cultivating children's creative pursuits.

Children's Role as Store Managers

In a unique twist, the event emphasizes children's role as active participants. They are not just participants; they are the leaders and creators of the experience, acting as ‘store managers’. From a pool of 70 applicants, 15 were chosen to lead alongside another 15 from Art Design Lab during a pre-event workshop that took place on January 10. They collaborated to design creative posters, utilizing skills learned from professional designers.

These vibrant posters will be displayed at the event, showcasing their individuality and creativity.

Adult Engagement - Output Party

Coinciding with the Kodomo Depart, an Output Party for adults will be held on February 7 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM (registration starts at 5:30 PM). This free session aims to foster dialogue among adults about nurturing creativity in children.

Topics will include understanding children's creative processes and sharing insights on how to encourage curiosity and imagination without the pressure of traditional evaluations. Attendees can expect to enjoy presentations from Kid Creators, learn about innovative tools like 'Creative Notes', and engage in interactive discussions with industry experts.

The Vision Behind Art Design Lab

Launched in 2018, Art Design Lab is dedicated to safeguarding children's curiosity and self-expression. Focused on nurturing essential skills for navigating a VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) world, the organization emphasizes the significance of creativity beginning in early childhood. Through methods that emphasize curiosity, they aim to support children's development and creativity.

Stay updated with the latest from Kodomo Depart on Instagram!

Final Thoughts

Join us for an unforgettable weekend at Kodomo Depart, where imagination knows no bounds, and creativity flourishes. Whether you're a child eager to create or an adult wishing to learn more about nurturing creativity, this event promises a rich and fulfilling experience.