Learn how the Support Centers for Families and Children of Japanese prefectures work
The General Support Center for Families with Children, established by municipalities based on the Maternal and Child Health Act, is the local governments’ one-stop shop for information on general support for parents and children. It does not do medical appointments.
This support extends from pregnancy to the beginning of education, when the child enters elementary school (Shogakko). There, you can consult and solve your doubts about pregnancy, the mother’s body, birth, development, feeding, and the child’s education, everything related to health care and wellbeing.
The centers provide continuous support from pregnancy to child rearing, where a specialist will attend and help, answering questions from the mother-to-be and referring her to the necessary service.
On the other hand, childbirth, preventive vaccination, and treatment of illnesses and injuries are only done in medical institutions.
Always keep an eye on your municipality’s announcements and visit the Support Center whenever necessary.
