In an exciting trend, Singaporean parents are going the extra mile—or rather, thousands of miles—to provide their preschoolers with unique cultural experiences. A growing number of families are enrolling their young children in Japanese exchange programmes, offering an immersive taste of Japan’s education system and way of life. These programmes, run by Tokyo-based Japan Preschool Exchange, have drawn significant interest, with 63 children from Singaporean families participating so far this year.
A Memorable Experience
Parents like Winnie Chia, a finance professional, are embracing the opportunity to give their children a unique and enriching experience. Chia enrolled her six-year-old daughter, Leanne, in a week-long programme in Omori town before she begins primary school. For Chia, this was part of a tradition of taking her children on “graduation trips” to mark milestones. The exchange programme included engaging activities such as cooking their own lunch, Halloween parades, and nature walks, all designed to broaden horizons and foster cultural appreciation.
Image from CNA: Eden Sim (holding Singapore flag) with her classmates during her two-week exchange programme in Ueda International School. (Photo: Ken Sim)
Another participant, five-year-old Eden Sim, spent two weeks at Ueda International School in Nagano Prefecture. Her father, Ken Sim, noted the differences between Singapore’s structured, academically focused education system and Japan’s emphasis on personal development and outdoor play. “The curriculum was a mix of academic and experiential learning,” said Sim. The experience allowed Eden to adapt to a new environment and build friendships despite the language barrier.
Overcoming Challenges
Although neither Leanne nor Eden spoke Japanese, they navigated the language barrier with the help of body language, teacher support, and translation apps. These challenges became valuable learning opportunities, enabling the children to pick up basic Japanese phrases and fostering adaptability.
Ms. Chia and Mr. Sim highlighted the importance of considering the child’s personality before enrolling them in such programmes. “For extroverted and adventurous kids, this is an excellent opportunity,” said Chia. Both children came away with treasured memories, including scrapbooks gifted by their Japanese classmates.
Image from CNA: Children playing at a traditional Japanese house on the premises of Omori Sakura Preschool in Omori town, Shimane Prefecture. (Photo: Japan Preschool Exchange)
Financial Commitment
These programmes come at a cost. Ms. Chia spent around S$3,000 for a week-long experience, covering school fees and accommodation for herself and Leanne. For a two-week stint, Mr. Sim paid approximately S$5,600. While additional expenses like flights and meals were not included, both parents deemed the investment worthwhile for the once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Supporting Rural Communities
The initiative also serves a broader purpose. By partnering with schools in rural Japanese towns, Japan Preschool Exchange helps sustain local communities, boost economies, and keep preschools operational. The programme’s leader, Ms. Chiyu Sho, emphasized that the declining birthrate in Japan has made such initiatives vital for these communities’ survival.
Image from CNA: Children enjoying the expansive playground at Hazeru Preschool in Assabu town, Hokkaido. (Photo: Japan Preschool Exchange)
Expert Insights
Education experts agree that such programmes offer valuable developmental benefits. Dr. Chin Hui Wen, an early childhood education lecturer at Singapore University of Social Sciences, remarked that these experiences could enhance brain development when thoughtfully facilitated. However, she emphasized that quality time and interactions at home remain equally important for a child’s growth.
A Trend Worth Watching
With increasing numbers of Singaporean families seeking meaningful overseas experiences for their children, programmes like these are likely to gain even more traction. For parents like Chia and Sim, the investment is about creating lasting memories and exposing their children to a world of possibilities.
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This article was written in CNA by Fabian Koh, originally published on 23 Dec 2024, 06:00AM (Updated: 23 Dec 2024, 09:00AM).
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