manma and Okayama Prefecture Launch Planning and Operation of Reiwa 8 "Child-rearing Family Study Abroad Program"

This program aims to alleviate the anxieties of young people regarding marriage and child-rearing, and foster a positive mindset, by having them visit child-rearing families to gain hands-on experience and exchange opinions. It also aims to foster a societal atmosphere that supports marriage and child-rearing by having participants create articles and videos about their experiences.

In addition to "Child-rearing Family Study Abroad," which involves visiting child-rearing families, the program includes "Exchange Meetings with Experienced Parents" where participants can hear firsthand accounts and engage in discussions with parents who are currently raising children, thereby resolving anxieties about marriage and child-rearing.

Furthermore, all participants will undergo surveys to measure the program's effectiveness, confirming their insights gained throughout the program and changes in their attitudes before and after participation.

"Child-rearing Family Study Abroad" is an experiential program where participants visit child-rearing families in Okayama Prefecture to experience child-rearing and exchange opinions with them.

[Target Audience]: University students and working adults residing in Okayama Prefecture (regardless of marital status / those studying or working in the prefecture are also eligible) [Participation Method]: In-person (at host family's home), or via web conferencing systems such as Zoom [Participation Fee]: Free [Application Period]: April 3, Reiwa 8 - January 31, Reiwa 9 (April 3, 2026 - January 31, 2027) [Details & Application Here]: https://manma.co/service/okayama *The application period may end without notice if the program reaches its capacity.

Primarily, exchange meetings with experienced parents will be held for individuals or couples who are about to get married or start raising children, such as university students and young working professionals. These meetings will provide opportunities to hear personal experiences from parents and resolve anxieties about marriage and child-rearing through discussions. Details will be introduced on the official website at a later date.

[Organizer]: Okayama Prefecture [Operator]: NPO manma

[Inquiries]: Okayama Prefecture Child-rearing Family Study Abroad Program Secretariat [email protected]