25 Years of Bookstart in Japan: Survey Reveals Key Role in Maternal Health and Community Support

NPO Bookstart conducted a nationwide survey of 988 municipalities regarding the 'Bookstart' program. The results indicate that the initiative has evolved beyond simple reading promotion into a vital system for maternal health and community-based child-rearing support. Key benefits include forming parent-child attachments and reducing childcare anxiety. However, the program faces challenges such as an aging volunteer base and the need for better support for non-Japanese speaking families.