In March, Ethan completed Kindergarten. The Japanese put on elaborate graduation ceremonies for their youngsters, whom have finished their three years of Kindergarten; it's mandatory for Japanese parents to send their kids to Yochien when they turn 3. We arrived at Ethan's school at 9 a.m., and seated by 9:30. The whole ceremony lasted almost 2 hours. There were speakers from the school and special guest speakers from the city government. The children received their diplomas and then we sang songs; the last one, performed by the students to the parents, made all the mothers sniff and tear in their hankies. I was really surprised how formal it was. It was almost like attending a college graduation!
Smire fol the camela!
Ethan's teacher called each student to the stage prior to receiving their diplomas, in which case the student had to respond, "hai." You may not be able to tell, but Ethan was really nervous!
Jake giving his older brother a congratulatory hug.
Ethan pictured with Takagi Sensei, the assistant teacher. I can't say enough about her. She was so incredibly dedicated in helping Ethan get adjusted to Yochien; a wonderful gal.
Ethan and his kindly teacher, Osawa Sensei.
2 comments:
Congratulations Ethan! I was shocked to hear Yochien is 3 years long. Will your kids all have to go that long too?
It looks like your all doing well and enjoying your time there.
For Japanese nationals, it's required, but not for us Gaijins. And no, we're not planning to continue our kids' education through the Japanese school system.
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