THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NURSERY (HOIKUEN) AND KINDERGARTEN (YOCHIEN)

 The objectives and responsibilities of pre-school education facilities vary. Nursery schools (Hoikuen) are child welfare facilities that conform to the Child Welfare Law. Hoikuen takes the place of parents in caring for their children in case they have to work, take medical treatment, and other reasons that prove difficult for them to look after them. On the other hand, the establishment of Kindergarten schools (Yochien) conforms to the School Education Law and is designated as an educational institution that aims to nurture and teach children the basics of compulsory education.

 Since Hoikuen differ from Yochien in its objective and responsibilities, the contents of Hoikuen education and entrance conditions are also different. Education and training in Hoikuen facilities are carried out by day care nurses from the point of view of welfare, while Yochien education is carried out by teachers from the point of view of education. Commonly but not necessarily, Hoikuen provide meals and sleeping hours, and may allow children to stay for long hours. Some Yochiens require packed lunch to be brought by children and leave school at 2:00 PM (11:30 on Wednesdays). Generally, there is a long vacation during summer and winter.

 Moreover, Yochien does not prescribe other requirements for entrance, besides the entrance age of the child. (Ichikawa City Public Kindergartens (Yochien) designate school location as one of the conditions.). Nursery schools are strictly for children whose parents are in situations that prevent them from taking care of their children. This is the most important condition that should be remembered.