In recent years, in the field of education and welfareInclusive."The word "all-encompassing" has become increasingly common. The literal translation means "all encompassing," but in the field of childcare,The concept that "all children grow up together regardless of disabilities, age, family environment, etc.refers to
In this day and age, diversity is important. The kind of environment in which your precious children spend their childhood will support their later life.The State of Mind."The following is a major influence on the
In this issue, we will discuss the positive impact an inclusive environment can have on children, its appeal, and where it is being implemented in Numata City.
1. why do we need an inclusive environment now?
When you are raising children, you may end up feeling more comfortable in a place where there are people in similar circumstances to you. However, once you step out into society, you will find people with diverse values and characteristics living together.
Being exposed to an environment where one is in daily contact with "someone different from oneself" from an early age not only fosters kindness,It is directly related to fostering an "unbreakable heart" and "flexible thinking," which are necessary to survive in the future.
2. "Three Great Powers" nurtured by an inclusive environment
An environment with a diverse mix of people offers three major advantages that are difficult to obtain in a group of children of the same age.
(1) "Imagination" and "True Empathy
Children who are slow to communicate verbally, children in wheelchairs, or the elderly who are much physically weaker than themselves. As children spend time with these people in their daily lives, they naturally ask themselves, "How can I communicate with them? "What do they want me to help them with?" What do they want us to help them with?
This is not the same as compassion taught only in words; it is a lived experience of imagining the other person's situation and looking for what you can do to help. This is the accumulation of this real experience,A lifetime of empathyThe first two are the following.
Self-affirmation and acceptance of diversity
A child who is fast on his feet," "a child who is good at drawing," "a child who likes to spend time quietly. In an environment where diverse characteristics are mixed, the pressure to "do this or that" naturally eases.
It is natural that everyone is different. It's okay to be who you are, too."This sense of security greatly enhances children's sense of self-esteem. Children who can recognize the differences in others will be able to accept their own weaknesses with kindness.
(iii) Improvement of social and problem-solving skills
"What kind of rules should I make for playing fetch with my friend in a wheelchair?" In response to these questions, children create new ways to play with free ideas that adults would never have thought of.
The experience of seeking "how to have fun together" in the midst of restrictions is the most sought after in the society of the future.We nurture "the ability to confront questions that have no right answers.
3. "Emotional stability" brought about by intergenerational exchange
An inclusive environment is not limited to children. Interaction with the elderly, the "elders" of life, also has a wonderful impact on children's emotional well-being.
The gentle gaze of an elderly person or the warmth of a hand. Having someone "just there to watch over you" provides children with a great sense of security (a safe base for their hearts and minds). The "intergenerational bond" that is being lost in the nuclear family is the foundation for children to develop emotional stability and rich sensibilities.
4. a place that embodies the "ideal inclusive" in Numata City
The ideal of "diverse people mixing and growing together. Hidamari Nursery School, operated by Kunikai, is a place where this ideal is realized as an everyday scene in Numata.
Hidamari Nursery School has a "special routine" that other preschools do not have.
A "small society" spreading under the same roof
The building that houses Hidamari Nursery School is also home to the following services
- Elderly Day Service: A place where grandparents enjoy spending time together.
- Child development support and after-school day care services: Where children with developmental characteristics receive support
These are not separate worlds separated by walls. They pass each other in the hallway, exchange greetings, and sometimes enjoy events together. Such "everyday life like a big family" exists here.
Blend in naturally and effortlessly
Children at Hidamari Preschool are never surprised to see an elderly person in a wheelchair. Playing together with their older brothers and sisters with disabilities is also a part of their daily lives. It is not a special event,Diversity must be there as a "normal, everyday thing.This is the greatest educational value that Hidamari Nursery School offers.
Peace of mind with professional staff watching over you
A professional in nursing care, a professional in disability welfare, and a professional in childcare. By having diverse professionals in the same building, we are able to monitor the growth of children from multiple perspectives. Parents and guardians can rest assured that there is a network they can immediately consult with if they have any concerns.
5. "Heart's Warmth" for all children
Inclusive" is not a difficult theory. It is about showing children the true picture of society, that there are many different kinds of people and that they live by helping each other.
Children who grow up at Hidamari Nursery School are surrounded by the rich nature of Numata and the warmth of diverse people, and their hearts are deeply and strongly rooted. The "heart that can love differences" nurtured at Hidamari Nursery School will be a source of strength for your child, no matter what difficulties he or she may encounter in the future,Believe in yourself, respect others, and your greatest weapon to pave the wayIt should be
We invite you to experience the daily life of Hidamari.
- What exactly does inclusive childcare look like?"
- I want to know the warm atmosphere of multigenerational exchange."
If you are at all interested, please visit Hidamari Nursery School for a tour. You will see the bright voices of the children and the gentle smiles of the elderly. Please come and see for yourself the scenery where each child's individuality shines brightly.
▶ Hidamari Nursery Click here for an introduction to the facility and to apply for a tour.
The thoughts of the Taiseikai/Kuninkai Group
Our goal is to create a "city of symbiosis" where medical care, nursing care, welfare, and childcare are blended into one. Hidamari Nursery School is an important place that gives form to this desire. We want everyone in the community to feel at ease as if they were in Hidamari. We will continue to support each and every child's "individuality.
▶ Support for Persons with Disabilities and Child Development
▶ Elderly Care and Community Care Initiatives
