I volunteered at Mitsuba Kindergarten, a local preschool in Kyoto, where I spent time each week interacting with children aged 3 to 6. My responsibilities included playing games, drawing, singing songs, helping with origami, assisting children with snack time and bathroom trips, and participating in their daily routines alongside the other teachers. I was essentially a “sensei” figure to the kids, helping out wherever needed while using the opportunity to practice and improve my Japanese.

The experience was both heartwarming and humbling. While the children were incredibly affectionate—often drawing me pictures, hugging me, or sitting in my lap—there were also moments when the language barrier made me feel unsure or overwhelmed. I struggled at first with basic vocabulary and knowing how to communicate in a way kids would understand, but over time I gained confidence by listening carefully, asking questions, and even laughing along with them when I made mistakes. I also learned a lot about Japanese culture, especially how structure and rule-following are emphasized even from such a young age.

I highly recommend Mitsuba Kindergarten to students who enjoy working with children and want to practice their Japanese in a natural and supportive environment. It helps to go in with an open mind, a playful spirit, and the willingness to learn—not just language, but how to communicate and connect without always having the right words.