Children over the age of 3 should be "familiar" with the national flag and the national anthem, according to draft new guidelines for operating public and private nursery schools.

The guidelines, published on Tuesday by the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry, said nursery schools should be encouraged to ensure children under their care become "familiar with the national flag through activities held in and out of nursery schools."

The report also stressed the importance of familiarizing children with the Kimigayo national anthem as well as traditional events and activities.