A questionnaire-based survey was conducted from July to October 2023 with 1,965 children in grades one to six in Chiba, Tokyo, and Ibaraki prefectures. Its aim was to examine the relationship between elementary school children's likes and dislikes and their attitudes toward school lunches across lower, middle and upper elementary grades, in order to determine an appropriate approach to school lunch guidance. The results revealed the following: (1) There was no major difference in the proportion of students with food preferences or dislikes across the three groups, but the proportion of students who finished their school lunches was significantly higher in the upper-grade students; (2) The desire to be able to eat “without being picky, if possible” was related to their enjoyment of school lunch and their experiences of learning to eat foods they previously couldn't eat; (3) It is important to provide guidance that increases students' enjoyment of school lunches and offers experiences that help them eat foods they previously refused. When doing so, it is necessary to devise an approach that suits the students' developmental stages.

  During the COVID-19 pandemic, childcare facilities were recognized as essential for maintaining social functions. This study aimed to investigate the burdens and conflicts at childcare facilities and to gain insight into preparations for future pandemics. The survey, targeting directors of childcare facilities (excluding kindergartens), was conducted from October to November 2023 using the REDCap system. Responses were collected regarding demographics, comparisons of staff and parent situations before and during the pandemic, and conflicts during the pandemic. Descriptive analysis was conducted on the quantitative data. We analyzed the frequency of certain words using NVivo14 and extracted relevant comments. Results indicated that staff felt overwhelmed by the increased tasks, such as infection control, in addition to regular childcare duties. Furthermore, the results suggested that maintaining good mental health was challenging. This finding highlights the need for mental health support. Recommendations include reviewing staffing standards, improving working conditions, utilizing staff with medical knowledge, stockpiling hygiene supplies, and developing manuals and ICT systems.