For dual-income couples, balancing work with a child’s daily growth can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Many mothers describe the period from infancy until elementary school—when children finally become more independent—as the “most challenging phase of parenting.”
During such demanding times, receiving support can make a world of difference. This article introduces government and private support services that working families should consider utilizing.
When is the “Toughest Phase”?
While it varies for everyone, many parents agree that the period between ages 0 and 3 is the peak of difficulty:
- 0–1 Year Old: Almost no time to sleep or rest.
- 2 Years Old: The start of the “Terrible Twos” (the “Demon 2s” in Japan).
- 3 Years Old: A period of rapid physical and emotional growth.
As children enter daycare or kindergarten around ages 2 or 3, their vocabulary and self-awareness blossom. While this growth is wonderful, it also brings the “No!” phase and a stronger sense of self-assertion, which can feel more taxing than the baby stage.
Solving the Struggle with Support Services
Japan is currently working nationwide to support dual-income households. Consequently, there are many convenient services available to help you navigate these busy years.
1. Government & Municipal Services
The advantage of government support is that you can receive professional help at a more affordable rate than private services. Note: Registration and approval can take some time, so it’s best to apply early.
- Childcare Support Passport: By registering via your local municipality’s website, you can receive discounts at theme parks or on housekeeping services through participating businesses.
- Family Support Center: A mutual-aid membership where local residents help each other. “Requesting members” are matched with “Providing members” who can pick up children from daycare or watch them during errands or emergencies.
- Childcare Support Helpers: Recommended for households with infants up to 6 months old. Municipalities dispatch helpers to assist with housework and basic childcare, providing a strong support system for new mothers or those without family nearby.
- Specialized Support: Many regions also offer “Multi-birth Support” for twins/triplets and “Sick Child Care” for when your child is too ill for regular daycare.
Tip: You can use the government-run website “Koko-de-Nabi” to search for daycare centers, temporary childcare, and sick child facilities in your area.
2. Private Sector Services
Private services offer high flexibility, and many now partner with municipalities to accept “Support Passports” or subsidies.
- Childcare Taxis: Provided by the National Childcare Taxi Association, this service features drivers who have completed specialized training. They assist with heavy luggage or provide door-to-door transportation for children to daycare or lessons.
- Childcare Share (AsMama): An app-based community where over 70,000 users share things and schedules. You can rely on “Mama-Sapo” (certified supporters) or acquaintances within the app for childcare and pickups. It’s a great way to connect with your local neighborhood.
- Housekeeping & Sitting Services: These are widely used by full-time or shift-working parents to reclaim family time. Services range from house cleaning and grocery shopping to professional babysitting.
- Lesson Pickup Services: Some after-school programs, like Wisdom Academy, offer shuttle services between home and the classroom, giving peace of mind to parents working full-time.
Summary
To recap:
- Many mothers feel the hardest period is between ages 0 and 3.
- Utilizing support services can significantly reduce the burden of housework and childcare.
- A mix of government programs (for affordability) and private services (for flexibility) is ideal.
If you find yourself struggling with “one-person parenting” (one-ope ikuji) or an uneven split of housework, please proactively seek help. Using a sitter or a housekeeper during busy seasons isn’t just a luxury—it’s a way to ensure you can enjoy your time with your children.