The Principal’s Little Notebook

Choosing the Right Nursery Schedule: 3 Days or 5 Days?
By the Principal of Melodies international Kindergarten / Developmental
Psychologist / Mother

Are you carrying the stress of raising children abroad all on your own?

Raising little ones in Bangkok can be full of excitement and new experiences.

At the same time, there may be moments when you catch yourself thinking,

“Maybe I’m trying to do everything by myself.”

Back in Japan, you might have had family nearby to say, “Can you watch them for a bit?”

But here, it often feels like all the responsibilities fall on your shoulders.

Without even noticing, this change can start to build stress.

Do any of these sound familiar?

  • No parents or relatives nearby, and your partner is often busy with work or business trips
  • Too much information online—hard to know what to trust
  • A small community where it’s difficult to open up honestly
  • Worrying about your child’s development or behavior, but not knowing who to ask
  • Feeling anxious after leaving your job or pausing your career

All of these are “common experiences.”

But what can feel hardest is

keeping it all inside without anyone to share it with.

What You Can Do

1. Make time for yourself

Bangkok offers services like short-term childcare and babysitters.

Even a few hours at a trusted nursery or child care center can give you the chance to:

enjoy a quiet coffee, pick up a hobby, or simply rest.

Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your child.

2. Start by talking with someone

It could be another parent at school or a friend living in Bangkok.

Reaching out—just to talk—can ease feelings of isolation.

There are also parenting communities both online and offline where you can connect with others.

3. Ask for professional support when you need it

Many major hospitals in Bangkok have Japanese-speaking / English-speaking staff.

Online consultations are also widely available.

You can also talk with your child’s teachers or the principal.

Because they see your child every day,

they can offer advice that bridges both school and home life.

For development or future paths,
the Melodies Kindergarten management team

is ready to support with experienced perspectives.

Helpful resources in Bangkok

A Final Note

Parenting abroad is not something you need to do alone.

Please remember to be kind to yourself—
you may be working harder than you realize.

At Melodies International Kindergarten & Nursery,
we aim to be a place that supports not only your child’s growth,
but also your well-being as a parent.

“Tired.” “Anxious.” …
If you ever feel this way, we will always be here to listen.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out.