[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 Ward, Tokyo; Representative Director: Yumiko Makino) held the family-friendly event "Gather, Child Store Managers! Sumida Kids Spring Festival in Kinshi Park" on March 14 (Sat) and 15 (Sun), 2026, at Kinshi Park as part of its efforts to build a community that raises children together.

This event aims to bring to life the "I want to do this! I want to be helpful!" spirit of children and the "I wish this existed! I want this fulfilled!" desires of parents. It prioritizes creating a space where parents and children can share time together and preserve those moments as lasting memories.

In its third year, over 150 children participated as "child store managers" across the two days. They managed 18 booths, handling customer service and guidance, and the venue was bustling with families from the morning. Through diverse experiences such as 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"

Continuing from last year, the "child store managers" played a major role, experiencing tasks such as serving customers at food trucks and acting as instructors for workshops.

With over 150 participants over the two days, they handled reception support, guided visitors through experience booths, and explained products, drawing significant attention and contributing to the event's success.

This program is designed to involve children from the preparation stage, including parent orientations and special workshops held between November and February following the start of registration. Participating children are presented with a "Certificate of Appreciation" featuring photos of their activities, designed to spark conversation and create lasting memories at the dinner table.