A Case Study of Japanese-style STEAM Curricula for Early Childhood Education for Sustainability Based on a Kindergarten Principal’s Blog

Early childhood education in Japan is conducted under the unique concept of Hoiku, a holistic approach that integrates education and childcare. This approach significantly differs from the subject-based education systems in many other countries. This case study explores how Japanese-style STEAM for Early Childhood Education for Sustainability (ECEfS) is embedded in kindergarten curricula, based on blog posts written by a private Japanese kindergarten principal in 2024. Although the term “STEAM” was not explicitly used, many daily and seasonal activities aligned with STEAM principles and the aims of ECEfS. The study illustrates how play-based learning integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics using examples such as Oni-Gokko (Japanese tag games) and Mame-Maki (a traditional event to ward off evil). These culturally rooted activities foster children’s competencies for sustainability. In Japanese-style STEAM education, the teachers’ Mimamoru approach supported children’s autonomy and collaboration in learning in the well-prepared environment created by teachers. Children’s intrinsic motivation seemed to increase through Legitimate Peripheral Participation and interest in older children’s activities. Incorporating locally rooted cultural elements and participatory learning structures may offer valuable approaches for adapting STEAM-based ECEfS in other cultural and national contexts.