In the creation of Ohana International School in Tokyo’s curriculum we have included the ideals and philosophies of many early childhood theorists as well as new up-to-date information about children, their potential and ability to learn.
We have also taken into consideration the importance of both academics and the “emotionalisation” and “socialisation” of children in their early years. We believe that young children are active learners who construct their own knowledge and understanding of the world, and that play is central to this. Environment and social interactions serve as scaffolds whereby children progress to higher levels of development, become self-motivated, and develop the ability to make their own choices.
Our commitment to the children in our Tokyo preschool is to provide materials and a learning environment together with exceptional, skilled, loving and caring teachers who are qualified educators. The basics of our curriculum follow the notion that:
The age-appropriate programme in each classroom is designed by the teachers, who work closely together with the Director in order to fulfill the philosophy and “live the soul” of our Tokyo preschool. Our curriculum encourages the child to become open-minded, well-balanced, principled, risk-taking, thinking, caring, knowledgeable, reflective, inquiring, curious, appreciative, empathic, independent, respectful, committed, enthusiastic, and tolerant.
As an international preschool in Tokyo, we embrace many aspects of Japanese culture. Teachers speak English and Japanese, as well as other languages, proficiently. We celebrate special days from all over the world, and have “respecting and embracing difference” at the core of our existence, and therefore support children through the language that is comfortable for them, while facilitating mastery of English.
Children with special needs are welcome at our Tokyo preschool. We have experienced staff with relevant qualifications and work with a network of specialists when necessary.
Areas of development that are covered include gross and fine motor skills, language and literacy, mathematics, science, social and emotional development, environmental responsibility, community service, global responsibility, dance, art, music, and movement.
Subjects are not taught exclusively. There is an overlap of, for example, science and language, or mathematics and dance. Children are encouraged to express their feelings and share their thoughts with teachers and their peers. There is open dialogue in our teaching and learning, and the emergent curriculum holds the children’s interests, which feed and inspire everyone. Art is a big focus in our education.
Our language of instruction is English. We use Japanese songs and words when we are focusing on Japanese festivals. When we celebrate International Months, we learn through many languages.
Yes.
Qualities are kindness, compassion, commitment to their teaching, professionalism, creativity, a love of learning, sense of humour, musical skills, drama, sports, and more.
OHANA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
3-12-36 Motoazabu
Minato-ku Tokyo 106-0046 JAPAN
