Our Approach

Essential Life Skills

Mirai no Mori programs are designed to equip children with the essential life skills they need to navigate challenges, overcome obstacles, and carve out their own paths for the future.

According to the World Health Organization (Life Skills Education in Schools, 1997), life skills are “abilities for adaptive and positive behavior that enable individuals to deal effectively with the demands and challenges of everyday life.” These skills—including resilience, problem-solving, and communication—are especially critical for children in care homes, who often face limited access to support and resources after they transition to independence. By fostering these life skills from an early age, Mirai no Mori helps children build the tools and confidence to overcome challenges, paving the way for a brighter, happier future.

Two Concepts

Children living in care homes often lack opportunities for hands-on learning due to restrictions within the current child welfare system. Mirai no Mori provides an environment where children are exposed to new ideas and values, allowing them to think and act independently. Through experiential learning, they discover their strengths, learn from mistakes, and celebrate their successes. Care workers also participate in our programs as “campers,” observing children in a new light as they exhibit previously unseen abilities. Because the care workers are present to observe this side of the children, these insights can then be integrated into the children’s daily lives back at the care home.

Experiential Learning
Through their own experiences, children gain practical knowledge and develop the ability to understand and navigate their surroundings. Exposed to new environments, ideas, and people, they absorb lessons and perspectives that cannot be taught through words alone. Our programs provide a supportive environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, empowering children to try again and build resilience.

Continuous
Mirai no Mori offers programs throughout the year, allowing children to return and build on past experiences. This continuity fosters a sense of security, encouraging children to push their boundaries and try new activities. Our curriculum is tailored to suit different ages and skill levels, ensuring that each child has the opportunity to learn and grow at their own pace.

Three Tools

Mirai no Mori programs are built on three foundational tools to ensure that children enjoy themselves while learning at their own pace:

Outdoors

We believe in the power of nature to inspire, challenge, and heal. Our programs take place in the great outdoors, fostering resilience and personal growth.

Diversity

We celebrate diversity and inclusivity, creating a safe space where children from all backgrounds can thrive and develop meaningful connections.

Role Models

Our programs connect children with positive role models who guide, mentor, and inspire them to build confidence and leadership skills.

Five Camp Values

At Mirai no Mori, we emphasize five key values with campers: Courage, Kindness, Leadership, Respect, and Responsibility. These values are reinforced throughout our programs and serve as a guide for children, shaping their actions both during camp and in their daily lives.

COURAGE
Speaking in public, traveling independently, or facing a personal fear enables children to overcome challenges, rediscover their strengths, and unlock new possibilities.

KINDNESS
Learning to recognize and empathize with the feelings and needs of others fosters compassion and helps children appreciate the kindness they receive in return.

LEADERSHIP
Learning how to set goals, create plans, and work with others helps children develop the skills to lead, communicate effectively, and pave their own paths toward success.

RESPECT
Understanding that different opinions, values, and perspectives are valid helps children develop the skills to navigate and embrace diversity.

RESPONSIBILITY
Taking responsibility for their belongings, words, and actions teaches children the importance of planning ahead and considering the consequences of their decisions.

Camp Magic

At our camps, children often reveal abilities and strengths that surprise even their care workers. Whether it’s helping with kitchen duties, speaking in front of a group, or completing an 8-kilometer hike, these moments highlight their hidden potential. We call this transformation “Camp Magic,” a term that reflects the children stepping out of their comfort zones and realizing their own capabilities. One of our goals is to help children bring this “magic” back to their everyday lives, where it can have a lasting impact.