Certified NPO Edge to Hold Summer Workshops on UK-developed Multi-sensory "Jolly Phonics" Method for Children Struggling with Reading and Writing

NPO Edge (Minato-ku, Tokyo; President: Eiko Todo), which works to raise awareness and support for dyslexia (a learning difficulty characterized by trouble reading and writing despite typical intellectual development), will host the 'Summer Jolly Phonics Experience: Learning the Basics of English Word Pronunciation' on Saturday, June 27, and Monday (holiday), July 20, 2026. The event is designed for children and students who struggle with reading and writing English, as well as their parents and educators.

The guest instructor is Ms. Kayoko Yamashita, who introduced 'Synthetic Phonics' using multiple senses to Japan and has years of experience in special needs education at public primary schools in the United Kingdom.

The program consists of two parts: the 'Adult Workshop (Online)' for adults to learn support methods, and the 'Children's Workshop (In-person, Minato-ku, Tokyo)' where children learn the relationship between sounds and letters through movement. These workshops build a foundation for home and classrooms to support children together, offering a new entry point starting from sounds for children who struggle to memorize spelling.

Three Key Features of This Workshop

1. Fun Learning with Jolly Phonics Utilizing Multiple Senses Children learn the sounds and letters of language through actions, songs, and stories. This effective method allows children with reading and writing difficulties to learn the basics of English words without stress.

2. Ms. Kayoko Yamashita, at the Forefront of Promoting Jolly Phonics in Japan An official trainer working on the front lines of special needs education at public primary schools in the UK will visit Japan. This is a valuable opportunity to learn effective approaches tailored to Japanese children.

3. Real-life Testimonials from a College Student with Dyslexia Hikaru, a university student in an international department who attended this workshop in the 5th grade, will speak. Serving as a role model for children with similar struggles, Hikaru will share personal experiences and support tips.

Why Jolly Phonics is Effective for Children with Reading and Writing Difficulties

Jolly Phonics is an instruction method connecting English sounds and letters, utilized in the UK and worldwide. Adopted by many primary schools in the UK, it enables children with reading and writing difficulties to acquire the basics of English while having fun.

In Japanese English education, memorizing word spelling by rote can cause significant stress for children with traits like dyslexia, often leading to a dislike of English.

Jolly Phonics, originating in the UK, approaches learning from English sounds and connects visual, auditory, and physical movements. Even if children struggle with letter-based entry, they can build confidence through 'I understand this!' experiences. This workshop expands possibilities for children anxious about English and provides tips to make learning easier.

Event Overview

[1] Adult Workshop (For parents, educators, and supporters) Date & Time: Saturday, June 27, 2026, 20:00–22:00 Format: Online (Zoom) Benefit: Includes viewing access to E-learning [Dyslexia Instruction & Support Course] English Reading and Writing Support Chapter 2: 'Building Basics for English Reading and Writing: From Sound Play to Reading/Writing Instruction.' Fee: 4,400 yen (including tax) Target: Anyone can participate (Mandatory for parents of children attending the Children's Workshop) Details & Registration: https://npoedge-jp26.peatix.com

[2] Children's Workshop (For children/students, in-person) Date: Monday (holiday), July 20, 2026 Venue: Minato-ku Disability Health and Welfare Center (Human Plaza) (1-8-23 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo) Target: 2nd-grade elementary to 1st-grade junior high students with reading and writing difficulties Time & Capacity: [Morning Session] 10:00–12:00, 2nd to 4th-grade elementary students, Capacity: 12 'English Sound Play & Jolly Phonics - The First 3 Sounds' [Afternoon Session] 14:00–16:00, 5th to 6th-grade elementary and 1st-grade junior high students, Capacity: 16 'Jolly Phonics - The First 6 Sounds (with new edition textbook)' Fee (Adult + Child Set): Morning Session: 6,600 yen / Afternoon Session: 7,700 yen (including tax) The Children's Workshop respects the child's own willingness to participate. Parents are requested to attend the first 20 minutes to listen to greetings from Edge President Eiko Todo and the testimonial from the university student. Details & Registration: https://npoedge-jp26.peatix.com Registration Deadline: Wednesday, July 15, 2026, by 18:00

Instructor Profile Ms. Kayoko Yamashita Ashbrook School (UK) HLTA (High Level Teaching