Gakuen Babysitters: first impressions and favorite moments
For someone who has never been interested in anime titles, the feel-good show Gakuen Babysitters exceeded my expectations. Driven by curiosity, I sought an easily accessible recommendation from a friend who wholeheartedly advocated for the heartwarming babysitters club.
The plot itself exuded a poignant simplicity. Ryūichi and Kotarō Kashima, brothers tragically orphaned in a plane crash, find themselves under the care of the chairwoman of Morinomiya Academy. Yet, the chairwoman imposed a condition for their residence: Ryūichi must be a babysitter at the academy’s daycare center.
Admittedly, I was hesitant due to the perversion of children in anime shows. However, witnessing Ryuichi’s growing connection with the children restored my faith that those I have seen were bad apples. But still, creators and viewers must address this concerning issue.
Gakuen Babysitters: first impressions and favorite moments
While watching, as the eldest of three younger siblings, perhaps children are not to be dismissed so readily. Maybe their developmental stage warranted our patience and understanding. They might even bring out the best in us. Gakuen Babysitters prompted profound contemplation within me. Without further ado, allow me to share my top five favorite moments from this exceptional series.
1. Maria Inomata cried with the children
IMDb | School Babysitters
Maria Inomata topped my list of favorite characters in Gakuen Babysitters. Initially portrayed as stubborn and unyielding, It was disheartening to witness her seemingly cold demeanor as the hall monitor, strictly enforcing rules upon the students.
In a surprising turn of events, Maria found refuge at the daycare center, seeking solace and unburdening herself to Ryuichi, who patiently listened and engaged in a calm conversation. During this tender moment, emotions overflow, and Maria shed tears alongside the children who embraced and comforted her. The scene resonated deeply, evoking a poignant sense of connection. From that point forward, Maria found herself inexplicably drawn to the children, despite not being a part of the club. She even brought cookies to celebrate a post-Valentine’s Day occasion. It became evident that in the innocence of children, a sanctuary from the judgmental adult world could be found, providing solace and serenity.
2. Kamitani joins the babysitters club
IMDb | School Babysitters
Since the accident, Ryuichi had been burdened by a sense of loneliness, forced to conceal his emotions for his younger brother, Kotaro. But he later found himself a dependable confidant, Kamitani, on campus. As Ryuichi immersed himself in his role as a dedicated babysitter, he couldn’t help but ponder what awaited him beyond the daycare’s walls. In a captivating episode, the Babysitter’s Club embarked on a campus-wide exploration, encountering various student clubs along the way.
Typically, Ryuichi found many of these clubs intriguing, prompting introspection about his own life within the school. During this time, Kotaro, ever perceptive of Ryuichi’s observations, displayed one of the most profound acts of love I have ever witnessed. With the assistance of Usaida, they encouraged Kamitani to join the club. Kamitani, a baseball club member already, embraced the opportunity.
Throughout the series, Kotaro consistently goes above and beyond to demonstrate his love for his brother. However, Kamitani unexpectedly grew fond of and forged a close bond with Ryuichi. In the end, Ryuichi discovered that he was not alone after all, finding reassurance in the presence of a caring friend.
3. Unlikely bond between the Chairman and the witch
IMDb | School Babysitters
The chairwoman exuded an intimidating presence throughout the series. Her strict demeanor rarely cracked a smile. However, what truly made her a captivating character was her instrumental role in helping the two brothers navigate the painful loss of their parents. Despite her sternness, she provided them with unwavering care, tending to their physical and emotional well-being. It was reassuring to see that while our main characters grappled with their own internal struggles, they had a nurturing home to return to.
One of my favorite scenes involving the chairwoman occurred when Kirin, one of the children at the daycare center, expressed her fervent desire to become a witch. Kirin remained resolute in her dream of soaring on a broomstick. After failing to fly from a high platform, Kirin cried in fear when the chairwoman stumbled upon the scene. To my surprise, she comforted Kirin and refrained from shattering her dream of becoming a witch. I was deeply impressed by the chairwoman’s empathy toward children’s emotions. She truly embodied the role of a nurturing parent, and the Kashima brothers have the best support they could ask for during such a challenging time
4. Kamitani and Taka’s complicated relationship
IMDb | School Babysitters
Kamitani is an intriguing individual, often regarded with mixed feelings by the girls in his class, unsure whether they like him or find him intimidating. However, to Ryuichi, Kamitani’s complexity is less apparent. His straightforwardness made him a great friend to Ryuichi, which served as a striking contrast to Ryuichi’s gentle nature. As we get to know him better through his involvement in the club, we witness a softer side beneath his exterior. His decision to join the club stemmed from his connection with Ryuichi and his love for his brother, Taka. Despite their constant bickering, it is clear that a deep bond exists between them.
When Taka’s mischievous antics damaged an autographed baseball, I felt a sense of unease, wondering how Kamitani would react. To my surprise, he chose the most agonizing path, as he gave Taka, the attention-seeking troublemaker, the cold shoulder. Naturally, Taka took pride in his actions. However, it became evident that both of them were merely concealing their true feelings, as they were not prone to displaying overt affection. The moment they recognized the need for honesty and open communication, we were treated to one of the most profoundly touching displays of affection in the entire series.
5. Kotaro’s first errand
IMDb | School Babysitters
Among the many heartwarming moments in the series, one episode that particularly stood out was when Kotaro decided to bring lunch to his brother, Ryuichi. The entire sequence unfolds with such exhilaration and enjoyment that it feels akin to watching an Olympic event! It may sound exaggerated, but the sheer joy of witnessing Kotaro overcome various obstacles to deliver the food is undeniably captivating. Even the students on campus become invested in his mission, cheering him on as if it were a monumental achievement.
For Ryuichi, this episode is equally delightful. It showcased just how beloved he is by his classmates. When they discover he has forgotten his lunch, they enthusiastically offer him food, overwhelming him with their generosity. Ryuichi found himself unable to accept all the offerings, as everyone expressed their care and concern for him. Finally, when Kotaro reached Ryuichi’s classroom, the loving brother that Ryuichi is, he still cherished the packed lunch despite the disarray caused by Kotaro’s clumsiness.
Gakuen Babysitters becomes a clear testament to the unwavering bond between the two brothers; fostering love and patience can go a long way. I’m not crying. You are!
