I wish there were many support groups for parents of children who don't attend school... If there aren't any, I'll create one!

There is not enough support for parents

Currently, the number of elementary and middle school students who do not attend school has exceeded 350,000.
This means that approximately one in every 25 children is unable to go to school. In the first place, "non-attendance" refers to children who are unable to attend school for 30 days or more per year for reasons other than illness, so if we include children who are recognized as attending through methods like accompanied attendance, separate room attendance, or free schools, the number might be even higher.

The background of non-attendance varies.
It can be caused by serious situations like bullying, or
it may be related to neurodevelopmental disorders.

I feel that understanding for such children who cannot go to school has been spreading little by little recently. Learning using ICT has also progressed, and free schools and places for children to stay have increased.

However, I feel that there arealmost no places, connections, or support organizations for the parentswho support these children. Even if they do exist, they are few in number and difficult to participate in.

I started connecting with specialized institutions after my child was diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder. But that connection is not primarily about non-attendance.

It is strictly a connection regarding support for neurodevelopmental disorders.
Most of the children go to school, and many of the parents also work. It was not a place where I could share my worries as a "parent of a child who doesn't attend school" or exchange information.

If it doesn't exist, I should make it

I want a place where I can easily talk about the worries of non-attendance.
I myself want connections.
And actually, the children are also seeking connections.

I looked for organizations with that in mind, but
the schedules didn't match, or they weren't at a distance I could easily go to.
(Since children who don't attend school are unstable, I don't want to leave the house for long if I leave them behind. In that case, holding it at a distance close to home is best.)

With all that said,if it doesn't exist, I should just make it myself!
That is the conclusion I reached.

My youngest has just started enjoying kindergarten life, and my energy is also recovering. I feel that timing-wise, now is the best time to start.

Cherished thoughts

Actually, I have had the vision of wanting to create a community like this from long before now. However, I didn't have the capacity myself, so I couldn't start moving... I have just been cherishing these thoughts for a long time.

Since my children were born, I have often felt lonely because I couldn't find time to talk slowly with adults. Days were spent holding onto anxiety and frustration alone, without even an opportunity to talk about minor complaints. I was mentally cornered, and there were times when I would lash out at my children or partner and blame myself.

I have strongly felt that it would have been good to have local connections where we could support each other during earthquakes, bad weather, or when the children or I were in poor health.

Moms are always desperately protecting lives. They put themselves last and are raising their children with all their might. I believe that having mental support and connections is very important to carry out this great mission.

Circle "Chatting Friends Group"

I will create a small local connection and place to stay.
The circle name is "Chatting Friends Group."
It's an organization name I thought of on the spot at the reception desk, so it might not sound very cool, haha. I hope it can be a place where people can drop by casually and relax before heading home.

The venue will be in Higashi-ku, Sapporo.
If you would like to participate or would like to hear more details, please send me a DM and I will provide the information. (For privacy reasons, I have not listed the details here.)

The memorable first meeting will be on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 9:45 AM.Feel free to:

・Stop by between dropping off and picking up your child from school
・Drop by while out for a walk with your child
・Just listen
・Just be there
・Socialize

Please bring your favorite drink or snack.

Since this is a newly started circle, nothing has been decided yet.
Since having nothing is not very exciting, I am thinking of making and bringing a mini-zine that we can use for interaction.
I hope we can grow this together, little by little.

I look forward to your inquiries!

It is very nerve-wracking to book a rental room without knowing the number of participants, but I am looking forward to new encounters and connections.