Exciting Mobile Aquarium Event
On March 31, 2026, Gakken Holdings Group's company, Gakken Coco Fan Nursery, hosted a remarkable event titled "Exciting Mobile Aquarium" at the Oohara Child Development Support Center Inclusive Space Bell in Shinagawa, Tokyo. The initiative aims to create a space where all children and their families, regardless of medical or developmental needs, can enjoy a safe and participatory environment.
Overview of the Event
This inaugural event featured support from Aqua Link Co., Ltd., which enriched the experience by conducting activities that allowed children to learn and interact with marine life. The event included several interactive programs that focused on sensory exploration and engaging learning opportunities through observation and hands-on experiences.
Program Highlights
1.
Tiny Aquarium: Two aquariums where participants could closely observe swimming fish.
2.
Touch Pool: A hands-on experience where children interacted with marine creatures such as sharks, starfish, sea cucumbers, and pufferfish.
3.
Sparkling Jellyfish Tower: A display utilizing Snoezelen equipment to present light and movement in an enjoyable manner.
4.
Complete the Rainbow Fish: An interactive wall art project involving participants in creative collaboration.
5.
Sand Play: A sensory play area for children to experience different textures through sand activities.
6.
Ocean-Themed Storybooks & Coloring: A space dedicated to enjoying ocean-related literature and coloring activities.
7.
Fish World Game: A fishing game that familiarizes children with various sea creatures in a playful manner.
Note: Snoezelen is an approach that provides soothing stimuli like light and sound, enhancing relaxation and sensory experiences.
Attendee Experience
The event exceeded expectations with a total of 111 adults and 118 children, summing up to 229 participants from 93 families. There were bustling moments in the venue; however, during the medical care priority times, attendees graciously shared space and made way for those needing more room. Feedback from participants highlighted the event's success, with many expressing gratitude for the unique experiences.
Future Events
This successful event introduced 46 families to the Inclusive Space Bell for the very first time, raising awareness about its offerings. Gakken Coco Fan Nursery intends to continue organizing similar events, taking feedback to improve content and ensure that children of all needs feel comfortable and included. Through these initiatives, the organization aims to establish an approachable environment that families see as a regular support facility where they can freely seek assistance.
About Gakken Coco Fan Nursery
- - Website: Gakken Coco Fan Nursery
- - CEO: Chie Yamazaki
- - Established: May 19, 2008
- - Location: 2-11-8 Nishi-Gotanda, Shinagawa, Tokyo 141-8420
- - Phone: 03-6431-1861
- - Business Focus: Authorized day-care operation, development of community support facilities, operations of child development support facilities, and other childcare-related operations.
About Gakken Holdings Co., Ltd.
- - Website: Gakken Holdings
- - CEO: Hiroaki Miyahara
- - Founded: March 31, 1947
- - Capital: 19,817 million yen
- - Revenue: 199.1 billion yen
- - Number of Subsidiaries: 82 (as of fiscal year ending September 2025)
- - Stock Code: 9470, listed on Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market
- - Address: 2-11-8 Nishi-Gotanda, Shinagawa, Tokyo 141-8510
- - Phone: 03-6431-1001
- - Business Areas: Diverse educational andmedical welfare-related services, including crèche and after-school services. Gakken operates globally in over 150 countries.