In the Era of 350,000 Children Absent from School, an Experiential Event 'Michishirube' for Isolated Families to Find Connection to be Held in Sapporo for 600 People

General Incorporated Association Casual Coaching (Sapporo, Hokkaido) will hold an experiential event titled 'Michishirube,' focusing on the themes of family, education, and self-realization, at Sapporo Kyosai Hall on November 28, 2026 (Sat).

This event is a large-scale participatory event for approximately 600 people in Sapporo, addressing contemporary family challenges such as school refusal, parental isolation, marital issues, and over-involvement from parents, with the core theme being 'Before changing the child, the adult must first be fulfilled.'

The event will feature diverse practitioners including educators, parent-community organizers, radio DJs, and picture book authors. Its distinctive feature is its 'experiential' format, which goes beyond passively 'listening to lectures' to encourage interaction among participants and introspection about their own lives and families.

[Background of the Event]

An Era of 350,000 Children Absent from School: The Growing Isolation of Families

According to a survey by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the number of elementary and junior high school students designated as truant nationwide in fiscal year 2024 reached 353,970, marking a new record high for 12 consecutive years. This translates to approximately 1 in 14 junior high school students and about 1 in 47 elementary school students being absent from school.

Furthermore, with the increase in dual-income households and the pervasive influence of social media, more families are experiencing isolation while struggling with parenting and marital relationships, lacking avenues for consultation.

Meanwhile, many parents, in their efforts to be 'for the child,' 'for the family,' and 'must be a good parent,' are pushing themselves aside and becoming exhausted.

This event, 'Michishirube,' aims to provide 'a place to support one's entire life,' not just 'problem-solving,' based on the belief that 'children feel more secure in a home where adults are smiling.'

[Event Features]

1. A 600-person 'Experiential' Event, Rare in Hokkaido

Unlike typical lectures, this event emphasizes interaction and emotional experiences among participants. The structure is designed not just for 'listening and finishing,' but for 'connecting with people.'

2. Focus on 'Adults Themselves,' Not 'Children's Problems'

While addressing school refusal and parenting, the central focus is on 'the parents' own lives.' It delivers a message to adults who: blame themselves continuously, struggle searching for the 'right answer,' and feel lonely within their families.

3. Diverse Speakers Crossing Education, Community, and Social Circles

Practitioners from various backgrounds, including educators, community organizers, artists, and influencers, will gather. The instructors, who have influenced over 17,000 people cumulatively, will speak from their 'life experiences' rather than their 'titles.'

The Meaning Embedded in 'Michishirube'

'Michishirube' (meaning 'guidepost') was born from the initials of the wishes we want to deliver to all families:

M: Mitomeru (Acknowledge) - Acknowledge the child and oneself, and the current situation.

Chi: Chigai wo Sonchou Suru (Respect Differences) - Value the unique values and paces of children and spouses.

Shi: Shinjiru (Believe) - Believe in the child's potential, one's own possibilities, and family connections.

Ru: Yurumeru (Loosen Up) - Let go of 'shoulds' and expectations.

Be: Betsu no Mirai wo Sentaku Suru (Choose Another Future) - Choose a future you desire, not one dictated by others' expectations.

Event Overview

Event Name: Experiential Event 'Michishirube'

Date & Time: November 28, 2026 (Sat) 14:30 - 20:30

Venue: Sapporo Kyosai Hall (1-1 Kita 4-jo Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido)

Organizer: General Incorporated Association Casual Coaching

Sponsorship: Sapporo Board of Education

Expected Participants: 600 people

Participation Fee: Advance ¥2,000 / On-site ¥3,000

Childcare available (details and times negotiable)

Official Instagram Account

https://www.instagram.com/michishirube.kouen/

Organizer's Comment

Yuma Yagi, Representative of General Incorporated Association Casual Coaching

'I have witnessed many adults who are trying to support their children reaching their limits. That is precisely why, through this event, we want to provide an opportunity for people to value themselves first, rather than solely for 'someone else.' Those who work hard for their children often leave themselves behind. However, in reality, children feel more secure in a home where adults are smiling. I would be happy if 'Michishirube' could become a 'place of hope' for families, education, and communities to reconnect.'