#Japan #special needs #Fujisawa #Yumi Nishimura #Parenting Techniques

Transforming Parenting for Children with Developmental Disabilities

On June 11, 2025, Yumi Nishimura, a pediatrician specializing in developmental disabilities and the representative of the Japan Pediatric Development Support Association, held an enlightening seminar in Fujisawa, Kanagawa. The seminar aimed to educate parents on effective methods for interacting with and nurturing children with developmental characteristics.

The seminar addressed a critical issue highlighted in the 2022 survey by the Ministry of Education, which indicated that around 8.8% of students in public elementary and middle schools require special support, regardless of their diagnosis. Many parents struggle with their children's developmental traits, often feeling overwhelmed by behaviors such as frequent tantrums and hyperactivity. However, the seminar emphasized a positive perspective: although certain behaviors may hinder social interactions, recognizing and encouraging desirable behaviors can greatly benefit children. By focusing on positivity, these children can become more self-aware of their strengths, allowing their unique traits to shine rather than stand out negatively.

During the seminar, Nishimura, who is not just a pediatrician but also a mother raising a child with developmental challenges, shared practical strategies specifically aimed at parents of preschool children. Her insights revolved around techniques to foster a nurturing environment that appreciates and utilizes the child's individual development traits.

Positive Reinforcement in Parenting

Many attendees expressed gratitude, stating, "I learned about the effectiveness of praise and how to implement it in our daily lives!" Nishimura presented evidence from developmental psychology to explain why praising children is crucial and offered practical tips on how to incorporate more positive reinforcement in parenting.

For instance, she discussed the importance of maintaining eye contact and shared strategies to increase instances of praise during daily interactions. One participant remarked, "I often find myself focusing on the negative behaviors I want to change, but I am now motivated to alter my perspective and communication style."

Another attendee, who assists students in elementary school, mentioned, "The content was highly applicable to my work, providing me with new tools to support children effectively."

Photographs taken with attendees after the seminar captured the camaraderie and shared commitment to improving parenting techniques for children with developmental characteristics.

Our Mission

The Japan Pediatric Development Support Association believes in the importance of equipping parents and caregivers of children with unique developmental needs with the necessary tools and knowledge. We are dedicated to raising awareness about constructive parenting strategies and aim to continue engaging in outreach programs with local governments.

If you are interested in hosting a seminar or require specific guidance on nurturing children with developmental disabilities, do not hesitate to contact our association for support. Together, we can foster a more inclusive and understanding environment for all children.