Pre-school attendance in Japan is pretty much universal. It is not mandatory, but the participation rate of 3, 4, and 5 year olds is close to
100%. Day Care is for kids from 6 months through 5 years of age. The school year runs from 1 April and ends 31 March. The children are
grouped into cohorts according to birthdate. That is, little Taro born 31 March and Hanako born 1 April will be in different cohorts. Most Day
Cares will have six cohorts; 6 months, 1 year old, 2 year old, 3 year old, 4 year old, 5 year old.
https://www.quora.com/How-does-early-childhood-education-in-Japan-India-China-differ-from-the-standard-American-European-preschool
Formal School starts at age 6
Areas focused on for school readiness
(1) A form of early childhood care and education that is based on nurturing the human relationships within the group (2)
A form of early childhood care and education that extends the child’s ability to perform functions (3) A form of early
childhood care and education that is child-centered http://www.ocha.ac.jp/intl/cwed_old/eccd/report/hand_E/1-1e.pdf
School Readiness Preschool teachers work with children to: Build self-esteem. Develop
age-appropriate social skills. Provide a variety of experiences in language, art, music, science, math
and play. Promote a confident, positive attitude toward learning. Create an inclusive environment
that offers opportunities which promote understanding and reflect and value diversity. Prepare
children academically for the next learning environment. http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/Page/427
Social-emotional development Literacy Math Cognitive development Language skills Physical
development