Daycare
As parents living in Japan, one of the biggest milestones for our little family finally happened — our baby Hithesh got selected for a government licensed daycare (Hoikuen)! 💛認可保育園
(This is from internet, in the hoikuen visit we were careful enough not to take photographs due to privacy rules of everyone. But this structure is very same in almost every place.)
Hithesh is now 1 year and 6 months old, and this feels like such an emotional and exciting new chapter for all three of us.
Hithesh is now 1 year and 6 months old, and this feels like such an emotional and exciting new chapter for all three of us.
A few weeks ago, we received the official letter from the city office informing us about the daycare placement. I still remember the happiness and relief we felt when we opened it. In Japan, getting a place in a licensed nursery can sometimes be competitive depending on the city and availability, so we were very grateful. (We tried once before)
You can read here and here the stories 認可外保育園 (ninkagai hoikuen) = unlicensed/private daycare not officially licensed before this, we sent him ninkagai hoikuen because Both my husband and I thought we wouldn’t be able to find a licensed daycare because of the high competition.
After receiving the letter, we had an interview at the daycare. The experience was surprisingly warm and friendly. All three of us went together — me, my husband, and little Hithesh. The teachers and staff were kind, welcoming, and patient, which immediately made us feel comfortable.
During the meeting, they explained everything in detail. They also gave us several documents with all the important information parents need to know. They carefully explained:
- Arrival and pickup times
- Daily routines
- Meals and snacks provided at the daycare
- Nap schedules
- Safety and health rules
- Things parents need to bring
- Emergency contacts and procedures
One thing I really appreciated is how organized Japanese daycare systems are.
The daycare provides meals for the children, which is very convenient for working parents. They also pay close attention to allergies and nutrition. Food and healthy eating seem to be an important part of childcare culture in Japan.
They also explained how the fee system works. In government licensed nurseries in Japan, the monthly daycare fee usually depends on the household income and resident tax amount. So the amount families pay can vary according to salary and tax category. This system helps make childcare more affordable for many families.
Another interesting thing is the adjustment period for babies. Before parents officially start going to work full-time, children first attend daycare for a short period to help them adapt slowly. For Hithesh, the first days will only be around one hour. Gradually, the hours will extend little by little so he can become comfortable in the new environment. I think this is such a thoughtful approach because it helps children emotionally adjust without too much stress.
There was a small drawer space where we need to keep his belongings. We have to prepare:
- Pampers/diapers
- Extra clothes
- Seasonal clothing depending on weather
- Towels and daily essentials
Everything is labeled carefully because Japanese nurseries are very systematic and organized.
What I loved most is that at this age, daycare is mainly focused on play, interaction, and development. The environment is designed to help children socialize, explore, and learn naturally through activities and playtime rather than academic pressure. Seeing tiny chairs, toys, colorful rooms, and little sleeping spaces honestly made me emotional. My baby is growing up so fast.
My sweet boy on reading mode.
Japanese daycare culture also strongly encourages independence from an early age. Even very small children slowly learn routines like washing hands, tidying toys, and eating together with friends. I always wanted this from Hithesh, a responsible person,
This is truly one of the biggest milestones in our parenting journey abroad, and I wanted to share this special memory with all of you.
Hope you will be with me to listen beautiful stories of my boy’s Hoikuen life.
