#Japan #Tokyo #Financial Education #Kids Flea Market #Rucura

NPO Kids Flea Market Launches 'Rucura' Board Game for Kids

In an exciting initiative to enhance children's financial literacy, the NPO Kids Flea Market, based in Nakano, Tokyo, has developed an original board game named 'Rucura'. This creation is the culmination of years of experience from their interactive educational events which have seen over 370,000 participants since 2006. 'Rucura' merges fun with finance, making financial education more accessible and engaging for children, particularly those in care facilities across Tokyo.

Background of 'Rucura'

The development of 'Rucura' stems from a commitment to equip all children with the skills necessary to navigate their financial futures. The organization has successfully hosted over 1,523 events across the nation, backed by various governmental ministries such as the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of the Environment. However, logistical limitations have hindered some children from participating in these valuable experiences. In response to this, 'Rucura' was conceived as a flexible, enjoyable tool that can be played repeatedly in small groups, regardless of location.

The Educational Impact of 'Rucura'

Created in collaboration with Kyobo LLC, the board game allows participants to engage in a lively financial education experience by simulating sales and purchasing scenarios. Players manage hands of cards akin to 'President', adapting their strategies to meet customer demands. The vibrant illustrations by artist Riko Tsuchie help create an intuitive and approachable environment for kids.

Through gameplay, children will explore concepts such as supply and demand, budgeting, decision-making, and essential communication skills. This game not only serves as an educational platform but also nurtures a constructive attitude towards money; children learn to view it as a helpful tool in their lives and within society.


Image for illustration purposes.

Significance of the Outreach Program

The current initiative offers free workshops utilizing 'Rucura' to children's care facilities and related organizations within Tokyo. With hopes for wide-reaching impacts, these workshops are scheduled around the spring break of March 2026. With the service being fully subsidized, children will receive invaluable training from professional staff at no cost, bolstering the facility's educational endeavors.

Currently focused on five selected facilities in Tokyo, there are plans to extend these workshops nationally. The long-term vision includes reaching out to various community centers and after-school programs, ensuring that children everywhere can develop crucial life skills, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

Outline of the Outreach Program

• - Target Audience: Children's care facilities and similar organizations in Tokyo
• - Cost: Free of charge for all facilitation and resources
• - Timing: Workshops will be conducted from March 1, 2026, with special emphasis during the spring break (March 1 - March 31)
• - Capacity: Limited to five initial facilities on a first-come, first-served basis
• - Content: Approximately 60-minute workshops utilizing the 'Rucura' game

FAQs

Q. What age group is this aimed at?
The focus is primarily on elementary school students, but middle and high school students, as well as adults, can also participate.
Q. How many participants can join?
The ideal group size is four, but we can accommodate any number of interested participants.
Q. Is staff supervision required?
Only one staff member is necessary for supervision; our trained professionals will lead the sessions.
Q. Is there any preparation needed?
Just ensure an appropriate space is available; we bring all materials.
Q. Can you cater to children with specific needs?
We can adjust the delivery to fit various needs; prior consultation is encouraged.
Q. Can we adjust the schedule?
Yes, we offer flexibility around the spring break period, available on weekdays and weekends.

How to Apply

To sign up, please use the QR code below or follow this link to access the application form.

Credits

• - Co-development: Kyobo LLC
• - Illustration: Riko Tsuchie

About NPO Kids Flea Market

NPO Kids Flea Market aims to foster financial literacy, reuse consciousness, and communication skills among children through their experiential educational events.

• - Name: NPO Kids Flea Market (特定非営利活動法人キッズフリマ)
• - Location: 4-3-9 Yayoi-cho, Nakano, Tokyo
• - Director: Yoshihiko Akaike
• - Establishment Date: December 1, 2005 (Corporation recognized on November 17, 2009)
• - Support: Backed by the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of the Environment, and the Financial Services Agency
• - Website: Kids Flea Market

Recognition and Achievements

Kids Flea Market was acknowledged for its contributions to quality education and fiscal responsibility and has received several awards, including the 2024 Tokyo Kids Smile Movement Award for Best in Category and the 2024 Kids Design Award.

Contact Information

NPO Kids Flea Market
Address: 4-3-9 Yayoi-cho, Nakano, Tokyo 164-0013
Phone: 03-3384-0675 (Weekdays from 12:00 to 15:00)
Email: [email protected]
Website: Kids Flea Market