Program overview
NYCNDA sessions provide exposure to the Japanese language and culture through play, music, reading and arts and crafts. Routines make children more open to learning, so each day’s session will include the following activities:
Arts
Music and dance teach fun ways to advance language skills. Arts and crafts use the written language and cultural themes to inspire creative thinking.
Open Play
Playtime is great for mixed ages. Younger children learn quickly from peers and open play reinforces sharing and other important social skills in older children.
Bathroom Time
The group trip to the “potty” serves two purposes. For the younger child, it brings about awareness of the dirty diaper and helps to facilitate potty training. For older children newly out of diapers, it helps to ease anxiety about using the toilet in public. Children will also become independent hand washers!
Snack Time
A snack break gives an opportunity to practice Japanese table manners and learn how to clean up, in addition to refueling children’s energy.
Story Time
This wind-down activity includes readings of traditional Japanese folklore and modern tales. We will also read an educational book about early childhood development, such as dental hygiene, potty training and getting dressed.