[Approx. 10,000 Visitors] Toward Child-Centered Community Building: 150 'Child Store Managers' Shine at Sumida Kids Spring Festival 2026

The NPO Japan Wakuwaku Kids Executive Committee (Sumida, Tokyo; Representative Director: Yumiko Makino) held the family-friendly event "Calling All Child Store Managers! Sumida Kids Spring Festival in Kinshi Park" on March 14 (Sat) and 15 (Sun), 2026, as part of its initiative to build a community that raises children together. This event aims to bring to life the "I want to help!" spirit of children and the "I wish this existed!" desires of parents, focusing on creating a space where families can share time and create lasting memories. In its third year, over 150 children participated as "Child Store Managers" across the two days. With 18 booths offering customer service and guidance, the venue was bustling with families from the morning. Through workshops, food trucks, and stage performances, children demonstrated their capabilities and interacted with visitors. Blessed with clear weather on both days, the event saw a total of approximately 10,000 visitors, marking its largest scale to date. Children as Service Providers Child store managers taking on customer service

Following last year's success, the "Child Store Manager" program, where children experience working at food trucks or as workshop instructors, was a major highlight. Over 150 children participated, handling reception support, guiding visitors through experience booths, and explaining products, keeping the venue lively and successful. This program is designed to involve children from the preparation stage, including parent orientations and special training sessions held between November and February. Participating children receive a "Certificate of Appreciation" featuring photos of their activities, designed to spark conversation and memories at the dinner table long after the event.