Japanese Language Support for Children with Foreign Roots

When a child attending school in Japan cannot fully understand Japanese, the school or municipality may be able to provide Japanese language instruction or learning support.

Let the school know early about what the child is struggling with.

First, tell the school

Telling the school things such as:

• How well the child can speak Japanese
• How well the child can read Japanese
• How well the child can write Japanese
• What their native language is
• Which country or region's school they attended before

makes it easier to think about the support that's needed.

Japanese language instruction

Depending on the school, there may be:

• Time set aside to learn Japanese
• Instruction in a separate room
• Support from a Japanese language instruction specialist
• Support staff or interpreters
• After-school learning support

The content differs by municipality and school.

The Japanese used in schoolwork

Even if a child can hold everyday conversations, the Japanese used in textbooks and classes can be difficult.

Don't decide "they can speak, so support isn't needed" — check whether they actually understand their classes.

Communication with parents/guardians

If you don't understand handouts from school, meetings, or explanations of school events, let the school know.

Some municipalities have interpreters or multilingual materials.

About going on to further education

Junior high school students and others should consult the school early about going on to high school and entrance exams.

Support for children with foreign roots is available depending on the area.

What you can check next

• Japan's school system, and enrolling in elementary or junior high school
• High school admission and entrance exams
• Learning Japanese and local Japanese classes
• Not sure where to consult

Main places to check

• Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
• Municipal board of education
• The school

Last checked: August 2026