English Immersion School – English Hoikuen
Parent Handbook & Policy Manual
English Immersion Nursery • Policy • Procedures • Daily Operations • Information for Parents
Document Management
About revisions and revisions
At MET-EIS Hoikuen, policies, manuals, procedures, and safety-related documents are reviewed every six months and officially updated once a year. Additionally, if there are changes in laws, childcare practices, operational methods, or facility conditions, we will revise them as needed.
Procedures for emergencies and safety management may be promptly reviewed after accidents, disaster drills, emergency responses, operational changes, and similar incidents.
About this manual
This manual is designed for A4-size printing and distribution to parents. Please keep the signed confirmation and required documents in the enrollment-related files.
Table of Contents
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1. Greetings
Dear Parents
Thank you very much for your interest in MET-EIS Hoikuen.
Choosing a childcare facility is one of the most important decisions for your family. At MET-EIS Hoikuen, we value creating a warm, safe, respectful, and compassionate environment so that each child can spend time safely and grow up valuing their individuality.
MET-EIS Hoikuen is a small-group English immersion childcare facility operated by Fledge Japan Co., Ltd., located at 8-25-2 Kajima-cho, Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture. As an unlicensed childcare facility, our facility is operated based on relevant laws, notification systems, health and hygiene standards, safety standards, and various guidelines for childcare facility management within Japan.
At our nursery school, we value "respect," "kindness," "compassion," "cooperation," and "sense of security," providing child-centered care through daily life, play, interactions with others, and communication.
We believe that children can grow up rich in spirit only in a safe and secure family environment. Through play-centered learning, relationships with friends, physical activity, creative activities, outdoor play, and daily habits, we support children's development in mind, body, social, language, and cognition at each stage of growth.
In an English immersion environment, children naturally encounter English through songs, picture books, conversations, daily life, and play. Rather than forcing English on us, we support each individual in a safe environment that considers their feelings and development.
Through small-class childcare, we value detailed interaction, safe supervision, and careful parental cooperation.
Prioritizing children's health, safety, and mental well-being, we will support their healthy growth in cooperation with all parents.
If you have any questions after reviewing this handbook, please feel free to contact us anytime.
MET-EIS Hoikuen Founder & Facility Director Desiree Matsuyama
2. Conservation Philosophy
At MET-EIS Hoikuen, we believe that every child deserves to be cherished in a safe, respected, and secure environment.
We support the healthy growth of children through the following methods.
- Warm and trustworthy human relationships
- Learning through play
- Daily habits and real-life experiences
- Communication and social engagement
- Creativity and curiosity
- Relationships and emotional support based on respect
- Natural English immersion in daily life
Values We Value
- Respect
- Kindness
- Compassion
- Cooperation
- Sense of security
- Independence
- Curiosity
- Confidence
- Good human relationships
We nurture children's growth in a safe and homely environment, valuing the balance of mind, body, and language.
3. Mission
MET-EIS Hoikuen's mission is to provide safe, child-centered appropriate childcare that supports each child's emotional, social, physical, and language development.
We aim for the following:
- Providing a safe and warm childcare environment
- Supporting children's sense of security and emotional stability
- Fostering independence and confidence
- Developing good communication skills and social skills
- Supporting healthy lifestyle habits and life skills
- Fostering the joy and curiosity of learning
- Supporting children's growth in cooperation with families
- Providing childcare in accordance with Japanese childcare standards and safety management concepts
4. Facility Operation and Notification Status
MET-EIS Hoikuen is an unlicensed childcare facility operated by Fledge Japan Co., Ltd.
Our facility has completed the necessary notification procedures in accordance with laws and regulations related to the operation of childcare facilities within Japan.
Our facility is committed to maintaining and improving the following:
- Safe childcare operations
- Appropriate monitoring system
- Hygiene and health management
- Children's safety protection
- Emergency response system
- Childcare tailored to developmental needs
- Staff training and continuous improvement
5. Opening Hours
Regular childcare: 9:00 AM ~ 2:00 PM Full-time childcare: 9:00 AM ~ 5:00 PM Arrival time: 8:45 AM ~ 9:00 AM Regular childcare pick-up time: 2:00 PM ~ 2:15 PM Full-time pick-up time: 5:00 PM ~ 5:15 PM
Due to holidays, weather, disasters, infectious diseases, staff training, emergencies, facility management, and other reasons, the nursery may be closed, shortened childcare, or operational changes may be implemented.
In such cases, we will contact the guardian as quickly as possible.
6. Childcare Policy
At MET-EIS Hoikuen, we provide child-centered, play-centered, and relationship-oriented childcare.
Children participate in the following activities every day.
- Lifestyle activities
- Free play
- Supervised activities
- Singing and rhythm activities
- Picture books and reading aloud
- Outdoor play
- Creative activities
- English immersion activities
- Interaction with friends
- Rest time
- Seasonal events and cultural activities
Children develop the following abilities:
- Emotional control
- Communication skills
- Independence
- Curiosity
- Cooperativeness
- Life skills
- Respect for others
- Self-esteem
To support children's sense of security, safety, and understanding, both Japanese and English may be used as needed.
7. Health monitoring and daily health checks
At MET-EIS Hoikuen, we value the health and safety of children.
Staff observe children's health at the time of arrival, childcare, and drop-off.
Check for the following symptoms.
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Suspected infection
- Injury
- Changes in physical condition or emotions
- Unusual behavior
In the following cases, please rest at home.
- If you have a fever
- If you are vomiting
- If you have diarrhea
- If you have been diagnosed with an infectious disease
- If it is difficult to participate in group care
- If you need medical care that cannot be handled by the facility
If the child is unwell during childcare, we may ask you to pick them up.
8. Response in case of infectious diseases or poor health
To maintain a safe childcare environment, MET-EIS Hoikuen implements infection control and hygiene management that are generally required in Japanese childcare facilities.
If you are diagnosed with any of the following infectious diseases, please be sure to contact the facility.
- Influenza
- COVID-19
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease
- RSV infection
- Norovirus
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella
- Chickenpox
- Conjunctivitis
- Other infectious diseases
If you contract an infectious disease, you may be asked to refrain from attending based on your doctor's instructions, official guidelines, Japanese childcare hygiene standards, and facility policies.
If necessary, we may ask you to present the following:
- Medical certificate or medical-related documents
- Recovery confirmation
- Follow-up after fever resolution
- Attendance permit
Staff will carry out the following:
- Handwashing management
- Cleaning and disinfection
- Ventilation management
- Hygiene support
- Disinfection of toys and equipment
- Health monitoring
9. About Medication
Medication administration will only be handled when necessary, after submitting appropriate documentation.
Parents must submit the following:
- Medication Request Form
- Name Written on the Drug
- Container with Original Label
- Usage and Dosage
- Dosage
- Administration Time
- Emergency Information (if necessary)
Medicines that require refrigeration or special management should be stored properly.
In the following cases, the facility may refuse to provide medication.
- If instructions are unclear
- If the usage period has expired
- If the display is insufficient
- If safety confirmation cannot be performed
For allergy medications and emergency medications, please consult the facility in advance.
10. Allergy-friendly
Our facility places great importance on allergy management and children's safety.
Please be sure to inform the facility of the following:
- Food allergies
- Drug allergies
- Environmental allergies
- Severe allergic reactions
- Dietary restrictions
- Medical history or considerations
If necessary, we may ask you to present the following:
- Medical documents
- Allergy response plan
- Emergency medication
- Dietary instructions
While facilities implement allergen countermeasures within reasonable limits, it is impossible to completely eliminate all allergens in group childcare environments.
11. Naps, Rest, and Safe Sleep
Rest and sleep are important factors for a child's healthy development.
Children using full-time childcare are given naps and rest periods according to their age, developmental stage, and individual daily rhythm.
Our facility will implement the following:
- Ensuring a safe sleeping environment
- Proper monitoring during naps
- Regular sleep checks
- Clean bedding management
- Proper room temperature and ventilation management
- Creating a safe and comfortable resting environment
For infants and young children, special attention is provided.
An improper sleep environment (how to put the child to sleep) is prohibited.
Children are never left unattended during naps.
Bedding, mats, and nap supplies are cleaned and maintained regularly.
12. Diaper changing, toilet training, hygiene support
Diaper changing and toileting support are carried out with a sense of hygiene and respect.
Staff will carry out the following:
- Handwashing management
- Use gloves when necessary
- Cleaning and disinfection
- Safe diaper handling
- Hygiene guidance and management
- Privacy consideration
- Emotional support
Toilet training is carried out positively in cooperation with your family.
There is no reprimand, coercion, or shame for failure.
Parents are requested to prepare the following:
- Diapers or training pants
- Baby wipes
- Change of clothes
- Hygiene products
13. Behavioral and Emotional Support
At MET-EIS Hoikuen, we believe that children learn appropriate behaviors through the following:
- Secure relationships
- Positive communication
- Consistent daily routine
- Empathy for emotions
- Model adult behavior
- Engagement according to developmental stage
Our facility does not permit the following:
- Corporal punishment
- Violent guidance
- Verbal abuse
- Acts of humiliation
- Threats
- Intimidation
- Excessive isolation
- Harsh punishment
Children are supported in the following ways:
- Support for emotional switching
- Gentle conversation
- Emotional support
- Problem-solving support
- Troubleshooting support
- Suggestion of options
- Positive engagement
To ensure children can understand with peace of mind, both Japanese and English may be used.
Example:
- Daijoubu da yo (Daijoubu da yo) = It’s okay
- Yasashiku shiyou ne (Be gentle) = Be kind
- Ochi tsukou ne (Ochitsu koune) = Calm down
- Junbanko shiyou ne (Junbankoshiyoune) = Let’s take turn.
If a child becomes highly anxious or excited, staff guide them to a calm, supervised place in the classroom to help them feel safe.
This is not intended as punishment or isolation.
We do not lock children, impose unnecessary physical restraints, or leave them unattended.
14. Protection of Children and Prevention of Abuse
At MET-EIS Hoikuen, the safety and welfare of children are our top priorities.
Staff are responsible for protecting children from the following points:
- Abuse
- Neglect
- Inappropriate treatment
- Mental distress
- Dangerous environment
If there are concerns about children's safety or welfare, we may consult or notify relevant organizations as needed based on relevant laws and child protection responsibilities.
15. About Arrival and Dismissal
When arriving or dropping off, you must be accompanied by a guardian or an authorized adult.
Children can only be handed over to the following individuals.
- Guardians
- Registered pick-up and drop-off personnel
- Those who have been contacted in advance by the guardian
Identity verification may be requested as necessary.
Request to all parents
- Cooperation with punctuality
- Prompt notification in case of schedule changes
- Sharing health status and special notes
- Consideration for smartphone use during transportation
If pickup is delayed, an extension fee may apply.
If you cannot be contacted after closing, you may be contacted with relevant organizations as needed to ensure your child's safety.
16. Emergency Response and Disaster Prevention Measures
Our facility has established an emergency response system to address the following:
- Earthquake
- Fire
- Typhoon
- Flood
- Severe weather
- Power outage
- Emergency response
- Handling suspicious persons
- Evacuation support
- Facility standby response
Evacuation drills and disaster prevention drills are conducted regularly.
We support children so they can respond calmly in ways suited to their developmental stage.
We maintain a disaster prevention system by establishing emergency supplies, emergency contact information, and evacuation procedures.
In emergencies, we may ask for prompt pickup.
17. Outdoor Activities and Heatstroke Prevention
We believe outdoor play is an important activity for children's healthy growth.
As long as weather and safety conditions permit, we will engage in outdoor activities every day.
In the following cases, outdoor activities may be shortened, canceled, or changed indoors.
- Extreme heat
- Severe cold
- Heavy rain
- Strong winds
- Air quality deterioration
- Heatstroke warning information
- Dangerous environmental conditions
The facility will implement the following:
- Support for hydration
- Heatstroke prevention
- Seasonal safety measures
- UV protection
- Monitoring during outdoor activities
If necessary, you may need to provide the following:
- Hat
- Water bottle
- Seasonal clothing
- Towel
- Usable sunscreen
18. Meals, snacks, and food safety management
Mealtime and snack time are important times for children's lives and growth.
Children nurture the following:
- Healthy eating habits
- Independence
- Communication skills
- Social skills
- Dining manners
- Lifestyle habits
Basically, parents are asked to prepare the following:
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Drinks
- Milk or powdered milk as needed
Please consider the following foods when you bring them.
- Safe cooking
- Proper storage
- Appropriate developmental stage
- Consideration for allergies and health
At our facility, as needed, we may conduct food education activities, simple cooking activities, and food culture activities related to seasonal events, all under safety management and parental consent.
19. About What to Bring
Please sign all your belongings.
Examples of Required Items
- Change of clothes
- Towels
- Water bottle
- Diapers as needed
- Seasonal supplies
- Clothing as needed
The facility may not be responsible for loss or damage.
Please refrain from bringing valuables or unwanted toys unless requested by the facility.
20. Media and Screen Use
At our facility, we emphasize the following:
- Experiential activities
- Communication
- Outdoor play
- Physical activities
- Creative activities
- Social engagement
For educational purposes only, the use of only the minimum necessary media may be used.
- Singing and rhythm activities
- Reading aloud
- Educational activities
- Cultural learning
- Language experiences
Media use is tailored to age and development, and conducted under the supervision of staff.
21. Collaboration and Communication with Parents
At MET-EIS Hoikuen, we value collaboration and communication with parents.
We will share the following information.
- Daily updates
- Health status
- Behavioral and emotional aspects
- Development status
- Event information
- Emergency communications
- Seasonal notifications
Example of Contact Methods
- Verbal communication
- Messaging apps
- Letters
- Phone calls
We also ask all parents to cooperate in ensuring polite and smooth communication with staff.
22. Personal Information and Confidentiality Obligations
Personal information about children and families is managed appropriately and carefully.
Records are kept for purposes such as childcare, health, safety, emergency response, and facility operations.
Information sharing is limited to the following cases:
- Parental consent
- When legally required
- In emergencies
- When ensuring the child's safety is necessary
Our facility strives for appropriate information management based on Japan's domestic approach to personal information protection and operational responsibilities.
23. About Departure and Termination of Use
If you wish to leave, please contact us in writing in advance.
In the following cases, we may review the continuation of usage.
- Safety issues
- Repeated rule violations
- Unpaid usage fees
- Significant impact on group childcare
- Cases where safe support is difficult due to the facility's structure
We will proceed with the response while having careful discussions with parents whenever possible.
24. Requests to Parents
To maintain a safe and secure childcare environment, we kindly ask all parents to cooperate with the following guidelines.
- Respectful treatment of staff and other households
- Compliance with facility policies and procedures
- Cooperation with health and safety management
- Transportation within contract hours
- Updating emergency contact information
- Consideration for children's safety and privacy
- Cooperation in emergency response
If abusive language, intimidation, threats, discriminatory behavior, or acts threatening safety are observed against staff, children, or other families, we may discuss continuing the service.
25. Handbook Confirmation
We understand that content may be updated due to safety, legal requirements, operations, or childcare needs.
Closing Message
This manual has been prepared to support safe, careful, and consistent childcare at MET-EIS Hoikuen.
All staff members are expected to fully understand the contents of this manual and provide childcare in accordance with the procedures written herein.
We are committed to creating a safe, warm, and home-like childcare environment where every child is respected, protected, and supported in their daily growth.
This manual shall be reviewed regularly and revised as necessary according to facility operations, guidance from administrative authorities, or safety-related needs.
Records shall also be properly prepared and maintained so that daily implementation can be confirmed.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the facility’s policies or daily childcare operations, please feel free to contact us at any time.
Facility Information
Thank you very much for your trust and cooperation.
We sincerely look forward to working together with your family to support your child's growth, learning, and healthy daily life.