1. Language and Culture Lesson
Target Audience: Children (3-18 years old*) who wish to learn the Japanese language and culture
Language Skills – Individualized Lesson in Small Groups: Beginning with hiragana, the Japanese alphabet, we teach reading, writing, and everyday language used at home and in school. Students are guided to read authentic materials appropriate for their proficiency level. K-12 students write compositions, including storytelling or speech drafts, which lead to presentation activities. High school students use textbooks to prepare for university-level placement tests.
Intercultural Skills – Craft, Game, Drama, Food, and Project: While engaging in recreational activities such as games with classmates, or experiencing Japanese food, students are supported according to their individual abilities to naturally cultivate listening and speaking skills. Each week, students enjoy crafts themed around Japanese customs or the seasons, or engage in presentation-based activities.
*While Pre-K students also learn hiragana, our focus is on expanding children’s knowledge of the world through familiar activities (e.g., plays, songs, and storytelling, etc.) as well as gradually increasing their everyday vocabulary and phrases.
2. Bilingual Tutoring in Small Study Community
Target Audience: Japanese K-12 Students who recently moved to NC
We offer support for K-12 students in local school studies and homework. Instruction is provided by students from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. We accommodate all subjects in both Japanese and English. Our service stands out for providing a supportive learning environment where students from Japan can study alongside their peers, as well as for regularly updating parents in their language on their child’s English proficiency and academic progress. For students in middle school and above, individualized ESL instruction focusing on essential vocabulary and grammar to expedite English proficiency is also available.
3. Tea and Talk
Target Audience: Newcomers from Japan
We extend a warm welcome to those who have recently begun their journey of living in America, having arrived from Japan. Our aim is to create a supportive community where everyone can openly discuss any challenges or questions they may have, hoping each day is filled with enjoyment and peace of mind. In addition to English conversation, we offer advice on navigating American life from a Japanese perspective. Join us for our casual tea gatherings, where participation is free. We look forward to meeting you!
4. Storytelling Sessions
Target Audience: Japanese Children (Kindergarten to Lower Elementary School)
This session is tailored for children who have recently relocated from Japan and started their journey of life in America. Through storytelling sessions using both languages, we aim to create a comforting environment where children can enjoy and gradually incorporate vocabulary and phrases they encounter in their daily lives. Additionally, we will provide tips for mothers on selecting books and conducting storytelling sessions.
5. Summer Program (2024)
To be announced