Abstract

Issues such as falling birthrate, the changing Japanese family and society, diverse family needs, and working mothers have all had an impact on preschool education in Japan. The Japanese government has addressed the situation by implementing policies to support childrearing, “Kosodate Shien”. These operate at the family and community levels. This has led to changes in the standards and regulations in preschool education and has resulted in new childrearing systems or institutions, in addition to the traditional kindergartens and nursery schools. Consequently, universities and colleges have to train professionals who can also deal with parents and the community. In this presentation, currents issues in early childhood education will be described, as well as government policies. In addition, the significance of changes in professional preparation programs at universities and colleges will be discussed.