On May 8, 2026, the social welfare organization Kizunayukai conducted training at Nozomi Nursery, which focused on preventing improper care and enhancing mental health among childcare professionals. This training aimed not only at the staff of Nozomi Nursery but also encouraged local childcare workers to participate, bringing together 26 participants from both inside and outside the nursery.
Located in Higashiyamato City, Tokyo, Nozomi Nursery has a close association with its branch nursery, Clover. The training aimed to provide an open learning opportunity for the community, emphasizing the significance of creating a safe and secure environment for childcare and fostering mental well-being among staff.
The training addressed the challenge of improper care, encouraging participants to view this issue not solely as an individual concern. It promoted team reflection on daily practices to enhance collective awareness and support amongst staff. Additionally, participants explored the physical and mental burdens that childcare workers often experience, discussing the importance of self-assessment and proper management of personal well-being.
The sessions were designed to be participatory, incorporating discussions and group activities that allowed attendees to connect their insights with real-life scenarios from their work in childcare. This reflective practice enabled everyone to reconsider their approaches and employment styles in a supportive environment. Throughout the day, many educators diligently took notes while listening to the speakers, showcasing their commitment to improving their professional practices. As conversations progressed, a warm atmosphere developed, with participants exchanging thoughts and ideas with smiles, creating a nurturing and optimistic learning space.
The continuous accumulation of such knowledge not only contributes to enhancing the quality of childcare but also aids in establishing a workplace environment where staff members can work comfortably and confidently.
About Nozomi Nursery
Founded in May 1974 as Temari Nursery, Nozomi Nursery has long nurtured the growth of local children. In February 2015, it was renamed Nozomi Nursery, adapting to changes over time while preserving the founding principles of quality care. In April of the same year, Clover, a branch nursery, was also established. The nursery boasts over 50 years of experience, earning deep trust and credibility within the community alongside various families. Guided by the philosophy of "coexistence, co-education, and co-prosperity," Nozomi Nursery cherishes each child's individuality while fostering an environment conducive to their growth. Through activities that promote mutual caring, social engagement, and rich sensibilities, it nurtures compassion and social skills. Their handmade meals reflect the seasons, and various experiences are integrated with expert-led activities, supporting healthy physical and emotional development. Nozomi Nursery aspires to remain a cornerstone of child-rearing support, working closely with families and the community.
Insights from Lecturer Mr. Kawana
Mr. Kawana, the leader of the training, expressed that the participants included young teachers, deputy directors, principals, and veteran educators with nearly 30 years of experience. The training did not merely classify issues as good or bad based on isolated situations or phrases; rather, it fostered a broad discussion of foundational principles for engaging with children. It emphasized that feelings of impropriety are subjective—if someone perceives a situation as inadequate, it can indeed be deemed inappropriate. Hence, discussions surrounding children's rights, physical and emotional safety, and the professional responsibilities of caregivers require careful consideration. The insights gained from this training are intended to serve as a foundation for subsequent sessions, where more concrete examples and content will be discussed to better enhance interactions in daily care. Mr. Kawana expressed a desire for future training sessions to continue contributing to improving the quality of caregiving within the organization.
Future Training Sessions
Following the first event, Nozomi Nursery plans to conduct additional training sessions on June 4, September 10, and November 6, 2026, each offering different content. All sessions are scheduled from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM, and childcare providers from nearby facilities are also welcome to attend. Those interested in deepening their learning in childcare are encouraged to participate.
Inquiries Regarding Training
Kizunayukai remains committed to closely supporting the realities of childcare settings through training aimed at preventing improper care and considering the mental health of staff. In addition to this training session, diverse themes are available for training. For inquiries, feel free to reach out to Social Welfare Organization Kizunayukai at
[email protected] or call 080-5188-5855. More information can also be found on their website: https://www.honbu.hanyuukai.biz/. Please refrain from contacting them for sales or solicitation purposes.