This article addresses the ongoing challenges that After-school programs ("Gakudo" in Japanese) in Japan are facing: low wages for instructors and lack of participation by parents. The pay is significantly lower than a typical salary, leading to high attrition rates among instructors. At the same time, engagement and support from parents remain limited, putting additional strain on the system. These issues have ignited a national conversation about the value of after-school education and child welfare.

In Japan, after-school programs are considered crucial for children's education and their development. However, the poor treatment of staff and lack of parental engagement have become a prominent social issue, prompting public debates. The discussion primarily focuses on respecting the rights and welfare of workers and the necessity of involving parents more closely in children's education.

In contrast, in the US or EU, after-school care often falls under governmental departments or non-profit organizations with a clear set of regulations regarding staff wages and parental involvement. However, they too are grappling with issues of staffing shortages, funding challenges, and differing levels of parental engagement.