INTERNSHIP & VOLUNTEER
Spend time with children in Tokyo — and make it your own.
Machida Kodomo Mura is a small nursery school in Machida, Tokyo. We welcome international students interested in early childhood education as interns and volunteers — for a few days or for several months.
- Length
- From 3 days
- Stay
- Short or long term
- Language
- English-speaking staff
- First step
- Online meeting
ABOUT US
A small nursery where every child is seen
We care for a small group of children, so we can get to know each one of them. Our days are built around forest play, English and international culture, and care tailored to each child's personality.
Meeting people from around the world is part of growing up here. We want our children to feel that talking with someone from another country is simply normal — and to never be afraid to communicate. That's where you come in.
WHY JOIN US
What you can do here
Bring your own ideas
Tell us what you'd like to try with the children, and we'll do our best to make it happen. One past intern wanted to hold a mini disco — so we darkened the room, turned up the music, and everyone danced together.
Join field trips, not just daily care
Interns have come along on outings to the zoo, Sanrio Puroland, an ice-skating rink and the local forest. As a small independent nursery, we have the flexibility to include you in these experiences.
See the big picture of Japanese childcare
Beyond hands-on experience, we're happy to share the strengths and challenges of Japanese early childhood education, current trends, and how the field has changed over the years.
Grow your career with confidence
Our staff can communicate in English, so you can ask questions and share ideas easily. The experience you gain here is something you can take into your studies and your future career.
GALLERY
A glimpse of our days
Forest play 
Field trip 
Neighborhood walks 
Chalk art 
Picture books 
Crafts outdoors
PROGRAM DETAILS
Good to know before you come
- Length of stay
- Minimum 3 days. Both short-term and long-term stays are welcome (for example, one of our current programs runs from September to December).
- What you'll do
- Join the children's everyday activities — indoor and outdoor play, walks and field trips — and, where possible, lead an activity you'd like to try.
- Lunch
- Lunch is not provided. Please bring your own.
- Photos
- To protect the children's privacy, you may not take photos or videos of the children or their activities on your own phone or camera.
LIFE IN JAPAN
We'll help you settle in
New to Japan? We want your stay to be as comfortable as possible. If something is troubling you in daily life, just ask.
Finding a place to stay
Tips and advice on looking for accommodation in the area.
Everyday life
Recommended supermarkets and shops nearby, and how things work locally.
Paperwork & questions
If something in Japanese is confusing, ask us — we'll help where we can.
Exploring Japan
Our favorite places to visit on your days off.
Please note: we're unable to offer financial support, such as a stipend or help with travel or housing costs.
PAST PARTICIPANTS
Students we've welcomed
Sweden
Lund University
3 interns — two currently with us (September–December 2026)
Japan
Tokyo Metropolitan University
1 PhD student — long-term volunteer
Japan
J. F. Oberlin University
1 student — short-term volunteer
HOW IT WORKS
From first message to first day
- 1
Send us a message
Use the form below to tell us a little about yourself.
- 2
Meet online
We'll set up a Zoom (or similar) call to get to know each other and hear what you'd like to try.
- 3
Plan your stay
Together we'll decide your dates and what your days will look like.
- 4
Join us!
Come to Machida and start spending time with the children.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to speak Japanese?
No. We have staff who can communicate in English. A few Japanese words are always fun with the children, but they're not required.
How long can I stay?
From a minimum of 3 days up to several months. Let us know your preferred dates and we'll work it out together.
Is lunch provided?
No, please bring your own lunch.
Can I take pictures of the children?
No. To protect the children's privacy, taking photos or videos with your own device is not allowed.
Where is the nursery?
In Machida, Tokyo — a 7-minute walk from Tamasakai Station on the Keio Sagamihara Line.
CONTACT
Get in touch
Interested? Send us a message — even if your plans aren't fixed yet. We'll reply by email and set up an online meeting.
Are you a family with international roots?
We also welcome families from all backgrounds. Our staff can talk with you in English about visits and enrollment — just choose “Enrollment” in the form above.