Boys Town Shares Family Support Expertise at International Symposium in Japan

Families around the world are facing many of the same challenges, from parental stress and isolation to children's developmental and behavioral needs. Boys Town was honored to participate in a recent symposium hosted by Okinawa Prefecture in Japan, focused on strengthening support for children and families facing these challenges.

Representing Boys Town were Bridget Barnes, Director of Boys Town Common Sense Parenting, and Stephanie Jensen, National Training Representative for Boys Town. Together, they joined educators, child welfare professionals and family support leaders from across Japan to share evidence-based approaches that help children and caregivers thrive.

A key focus of the symposium was the importance of looking beyond a child's behavior to understand the family dynamics, developmental needs and caregiver challenges that may be affecting their success. Participants explored how schools, after-school programs, child welfare organizations and community partners can work together to provide consistent support for families.

The symposium also highlighted how Boys Town practices are being implemented throughout Japan in areas such as after-school childcare, parent support, developmental services and residential care.

One of the most meaningful moments of the visit was a stop at a secure women's shelter serving mothers and their children. The shelter recently adopted Common Sense Parenting® (CSP), and staff have already reported significant positive results. During the visit, Bridget Barnes met with staff and signed copies of the CSP book, celebrating the impact the program is having on families in need.

The trip also included a visit to a residential care program in Kumamoto, where the team continued exploring a unique historical connection to Boys Town uncovered through translated archival records during a previous visit.

From Okinawa to Kumamoto, one message remained clear: when families have practical tools, supportive relationships and strong communities behind them, children are better positioned to succeed. Boys Town is proud to share and learn alongside partners around the world as we work toward a common goal of helping children and families thrive.