The lives of children who require medical care and developmental support vary in the challenges they face and the support they need, depending on each family.
An event where you can actually see, learn about, and experience welfare equipment and initiatives that support each child's "abilities" will be held on February 8, 2026 (Sunday) at the Kurashiki Health and Welfare Plaza.
What is the "Children's Welfare Equipment FESTIVAL - Expanding 'Abilities', the Future of Welfare -"
The event is organized by the Okayama Children's Welfare Equipment Network.
Experts involved in pediatric medicine and welfare equipment collaborate to enhance the quality of life (QOL) of children who require medical care and developmental support, providing information and awareness activities related to welfare equipment.
At the venue, there will be a variety of booths where children and adults can participate, including exhibitions of welfare equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, and assistive devices, para-sports experiences, talk shows featuring experts and stakeholders, and performances by sign language dance teams.
Two years have passed since the inaugural event in 2024.
This will be the first event held in Kurashiki. It is a valuable opportunity for those who often feel hurdles in going out or moving, as well as their families, to encounter information about welfare equipment and support in a familiar place.
The event aims to provide a space for not only the children themselves but also their families, supporters, and the community to think about the future of welfare.
Admission is free and pre-registration is not required. For the latest information about the event, please check the Instagram and website.
Introduction of Event Contents
From the events that will be held, three will be highlighted and briefly introduced.
Boccia Match - The Moment Abilities Expand -
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Boccia is the ultimate psychological battle, where strategy, not strength, determines the outcome.
Experience the charm of this sport, where anyone can compete equally, regardless of age, and both adults and children can become engrossed.
That One Move Can Save a Life! CPR Technique Experience Session
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
When someone collapses in front of you, knowing how to perform chest compressions and use an AED allows you to take action. Transform the anxiety of "I want to help, but I don't know how" into the confidence of "I can do it," and learn life-saving techniques through experience.
This is How Communication Works! Tips and Daily Life from a YouTuber
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
A 9-year-old girl who has experienced spinal cord injury is active as a wheelchair YouTuber.
She shares insights from the perspective of a wheelchair user and daily adaptations, transforming "limitations" into a "unique perspective." While revealing the behind-the-scenes of video production, she conveys that age and physical condition do not matter in self-expression, bringing a ray of hope to children.
Aiming for an Evacuation Plan that Leaves No One Behind
Additionally, a new section themed around disaster prevention will be established at this exhibition.
Following the heavy rain disaster in July 2018, efforts have continued in Okayama Prefecture, centered around stakeholders and supporters, to share challenges during evacuation and consider preparedness.
Concerns and challenges vary by household, such as securing power for medical devices, preparing for flooding and power outages, and alternative means of transportation if elevators in apartments become unusable.
In pursuit of a disaster plan that leaves no one behind, preparations are underway with collaboration among stakeholders, supporters, and the government to organize individual evacuation plans, consider necessary items to take, and gather information on portable power sources.
Considering Evacuation at Home as an Option
On the day of the event, experts in electrical equipment will be invited to provide individual consultations on securing power for households using medical devices.
If there is no risk of flooding or building collapse, if sufficient power can be secured, considering evacuation at home as an option is also possible. Being able to spend time in a familiar environment contributes to peace of mind both physically and psychologically. Based on the power consumption required for medical devices, consultations can be made regarding how much battery storage should be prepared according to specific situations.
While introducing these initiatives, a space will be created for the entire community to consider the first steps toward safe evacuation.
Conclusion
One of the members of the organizing committee, Tonari no Kobo, represented by Okinami, spoke about the event as follows.
"This time, it will be held in Kurashiki City, making it easier for participants from the Bingo region to attend. The flyers to be distributed on the day will also be substantial, so please look forward to the event and feel free to come by."
The disaster prevention section is expected to be a booth filled with the thoughts of families with individuals requiring special consideration.
Discussions about welfare equipment and disaster prevention are not just for those in need.
When each person living in the community is informed, it leads to support in times of need. Why not visit with family and friends?
Data on the Children's Welfare Equipment FESTIVAL - Expanding 'Abilities', the Future of Welfare -
Please bring indoor slippers (shoes).
| Name | Children's Welfare Equipment FESTIVAL - Expanding 'Abilities', the Future of Welfare - |
|---|---|
| Date | February 8, 2026 (Sunday) 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
| Location | 180 Sasao, Kurashiki City, 4th Floor, Kurashiki Health and Welfare Plaza, Gymnasium |
| Participation Fee (Tax Included) | Free admission, no pre-registration required |
| Homepage | Okayama Children's Welfare Equipment FESTIVAL |
