The Parasol Debate Among Elementary School Students Amid Intense Heat: A 170% Increase in Sales Faces the Barriers of "School Rules Prohibition" and "Gossip," Surprising Overseas Observers with Japan's Discussion

Japan is experiencing record-breaking heat waves. While there is a surge in the number of elementary school students using "parasol umbrellas" during their commute to and from school, a time with high risk of heatstroke, there are still strong voices expressing concerns such as "it's prohibited by school rules" and "worried about what others might think." In fact, a long-established umbrella manufacturer has reported a 170% increase in sales of children's models compared to the same period last year, reflecting the market's expansion. However, many schools do not allow their use, citing reasons like "umbrellas can collide and be dangerous" and "one hand is occupied, raising security concerns." On social media, there is a heated debate with comments like "allowing rain umbrellas but banning parasols is contradictory" and "which should be prioritized, children's health or safety?" In many countries overseas, hats and sunscreen are mandated as UV protection, making the debate over parasols seem novel. This article will explore the background of the sales surge, market trends, children's voices, and the perspectives of schools, government, and experts. It will also compare these with heat measures abroad to thoroughly examine whether "children's parasols" are truly "acceptable" or "unacceptable" in the context of school commutes. The article will provide detailed explanations with supplementary terms to reach readers worldwide through translation functions.