Giving Siblings of Children with Illnesses or Disabilities a Chance to Shine Under the Stars! Akita Sibling Network and Hoshitsumugi no Mura to Host Inclusive Planetarium Event for the Whole Family

Event Purpose

Hoshitsumugi no Mura (a general incorporated association based in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture) will co-host, together with Akita Sibling Network, the special edition event "Siblings' Time: Everyone's Planetarium Experience" on Monday, July 20, 2026 (a national holiday), at Yūgakusha, Akita Prefecture's Relaxation and Lifestyle Creation Center in Akita City.

This event aims to provide a safe, inclusive, and joyful experience for siblings of children with illnesses or disabilities, along with their families, regardless of whether they have disabilities or not.

Expanding Support for Siblings in Akita

Siblings of children with illnesses or disabilities often find themselves silently enduring emotional burdens or putting their own needs aside within the family. Akita Sibling Network has long worked to create safe and supportive spaces for these siblings. This event, as a special edition, expands that mission by inviting not only siblings but also children with disabilities, their families, and members of the local community to enjoy an inclusive experience together.

Every Child Is the Star of Their Own Constellation

The dome-shaped planetarium, operated by Hoshitsumugi no Mura, allows children using wheelchairs or strollers to enter without transferring. During the show, each child's personal constellation is introduced, and they are called by their real names or nicknames. Every child—this one, that one—is the protagonist of the night sky. The event values the shared experience of gazing at the same stars, regardless of health or disability status.

The Organizers' Vision

Supporting siblings is not just about helping siblings. It's about building communities where every individual can feel safe and be themselves. The organizers hope this inclusive circle of care will continue to grow, starting from Akita.

Event Overview

Name

Siblings' Time Special Edition: Everyone's Planetarium Experience

Date

July 20, 2026 (Monday, National Holiday)

Planetarium Sessions

13:00 / 13:50 / 14:40 / 15:30 (Rotating sessions, prior reservation recommended) Capacity: 30 per session

Venue

Yūgakusha, Akita Prefecture Relaxation and Lifestyle Creation Center (24-2 Sakai-kiri, Kamikitamakomaki, Akita City)

Program

Dome-shaped planetarium by Hoshitsumugi no Mura Stargazing workshops: "Constellation Cards," "Earth Spinning Top" Sensory play activities by Tokimekids Labo

Target Participants

Open to all, regardless of age or disability status

Admission Fee

Free of charge

Advance Registration

Registration via online form. Walk-ins are also welcome.

https://forms.gle/YApkoNKJTuwsmQPx8

Organizer

Akita Sibling Network

Collaborators

General Incorporated Association Hoshitsumugi no Mura, Tokimekids Labo

Support

HTM Fund, Public Promotion Association (Public Interest Foundation) Akita City Support Program for Independent Activities by Persons with Disabilities, Reiwa 8 Fiscal Year