— A Note from the New Kindergarten Manager

The kindergarten’s garden is almost ready. Probably. At least from a distance, it certainly looks that way. A wise predecessor once told me that “almost complete” is the sweet spot for gardening—because perfection simply doesn’t exist. And even if it did, nature would swoop in and shake things up in no time.

With the chill of Daikan behind us, we are now moving toward Setsubun. Time truly flies.

As many of you might know, Suwa Kindergarten has been officially recognized as a Gifu Prefecture Food and Agriculture Education Model School. This year, we are brainstorming ideas for new activities. If you have any groundbreaking suggestions, we would love to hear them!

In the meantime, the younger children have already embarked on their own agricultural mission as part of what we fondly call the “Plastic Shovel Squad.” Picture a group of highly motivated toddlers, equipped with plastic shovels, diligently digging up soil.

The key themes for this year would be Hokkaido, organic vegetables, and sustainability. These terms sound impressive, but at their core, they simply mean growing and enjoying delicious food. The joy of watching plants bear fruit, the excitement of nurturing growth, the satisfaction of getting one’s hands dirty. And, of course, the unpredictable challenges—crows making off with our crops, typhoons sweeping them away, rot, decay, and the occasional failure. Such is life.

That’s exactly why I believe children need to experience the analog world of uncontrollable variables. A reality where success isn’t always guaranteed, where disappointment and triumph go hand in hand. Where trying, failing, and trying again is part of the process. No smartphone or tablet can replicate that. And perhaps, through these experiences, something invaluable will take root in their hearts.

Suwa Kindergarten is blessed with an abundance of nature. And sometimes, when I will watch the children tending to the soil, I can’t help but think of Heidi, Girl of the Alps. The wooden cabin, the crisp mountain air, the goats’ milk, the simple but fulfilling meals of bread and cheese. There is something truly magical about watching young minds connect with the land—something that reminds me of the beauty and wisdom of a simpler way of life.

And so, another year begins in terms of agriculture. Or perhaps, it has already begun.