This semester I continued to volunteer at Mitsuba Kindergarten (みつば幼稚園), although instead of going on Mondays from 2-4, I went on Fridays from 1-3. Just like last semester, I acted as a teacher’s aide, assisting the students in going about their daily routine and holding some very elementary English lessons. This semester there were a couple of days where there weren’t as many kids signed up (or not at all due to spring break), so I also was tasked with tidying things up on such days.

Although I love playing with the kids and have got to know several of them very well, the most interesting thing for me this semester was getting to observe how the inner-workings of the kindergarten function, especially when the kids aren’t there. I’ve been able to see firsthand just how hardworking and kind the sensei are, and have come to respect them a lot. I would recommend this CIP for anyone who likes kids (obviously), but even more so, anyone who is interested in education, as I believe that every single sensei excels at directing the students in their own unique, yet effective manner. Also, I believe this is a good CIP for anyone who isn’t as confident in their Japanese ability– you don’t need perfect speaking skills to connect with the kids over a game of soccer!