Free Early Childhood Education and Childcare in Yokohama City

Yokohama City has implemented a measure to reduce the financial burden of raising and educating children and to combat the declining birthrate. The government started “free early childhood education and childcare” in 2019, providing financial assistance to families with young children.

Eligibility and Benefits

Children aged 3 to 5 years old who attend kindergartens and certified childcare centers are eligible for free early childhood education and childcare. Additionally, children aged 0 to 2 years old from households that are exempt from resident tax are also eligible for this benefit.

Daycare facilities for disabled children will be exempt from fees for children aged 3 to 5. This also applies when the facilities are used in conjunction with kindergartens, certified childcare centers, nurseries, etc.

Requesting the Service

In most cases, parents are not required to make a request for this service. However, if they use unlicensed childcare facilities, temporary childcare services, or daycare services provided by kindergartens or certified childcare centers (excluding city-run daycare services), a request is necessary.

Classes for 3-year-olds

In Aoba Ward, an increasing number of kindergartens are opening classes for three-year-olds, which are below the younger classes. Once a child turns three, they can enter the class even during the school year and receive the same early childhood education as the younger classes. They are eligible for free early childhood education and childcare.

Pre-nursery school programs for 2-year-olds are also available at each nursery school. These programs can help children get used to being away from their parents and provide a smooth start at nursery school. Check the website of each nursery school for information about classes for 3-year-olds.

Get in Touch

For more information about free early childhood education and childcare in Yokohama City, contact the Yokohama City Free Service Hotline at [Tel]045-840-6064.