History
The Society was formed in 1978 (Showa 53) by the late Professor Emeritus Sadao Murayama of Japan Women’s University and others who have a strong interest in international exchange in early childhood education and who have been active in exchange activities for many years. The membership is currently about 300, including teachers and directors in the field of early childhood education and care, teachers and researchers in the training of childcare professionals and people interested in early childhood education. The number of overseas members is gradually increasing. Honorary members include Dr C.K. Kamii of the University of Alabama, USA, and Dr K. Luhmer, former chairman of Sophia University. Overseas Vice-Presidents are Dr N. Saito, Professor Emeritus, California State University, USA, Dr Jung Geum-ja, Professor Emeritus, Daegu University, Korea, and Professor Zhou Nen-li, East China Normal University. Many other international researchers are also members.
Member Benefits
- Those wishing to visit kindergartens and nurseries abroad can participate in the annual Overseas Training Programme organised by the Society.
- You can participate in congresses and present your research. You can participate in seminars, workshops, lectures and symposia to learn the latest knowledge and techniques in early childhood education.
- The journal International Early Childhood Education Research and the Bulletin are distributed free of charge and provide access to new information from inside and outside the country. You can also contribute articles and other materials to the journal.
- Lectures and workshops can be organised by inviting officers and members of the society.