Scene Image : https://sora.com/g/gen_01jjqzdpeyekh8tzwseg4xc8zk

— A Note from the New Kindergarten Manager

Yesterday, I wrote a blog on our English class, so today I would like to focus a bit on our native language.

The Connection Between Language and Thinking

Language is deeply connected to cognitive development. Logical reasoning and critical thinking are essential skills for functioning in society, and language plays a vital role in cultivating them. Professor Imai from Keio University, a researcher in cognitive science—particularly in cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and psycholinguistics—has conducted extensive studies on vocabulary (lexicon) and the mechanisms behind the mental representation and acquisition of word meanings.

Enhancing the Quality of Dialogue in Small Group Settings

At Suwa Kindergarten, we emphasize meaningful dialogue in small group settings. Children acquire language through rich and engaging conversations, deepening their thinking skills in the process. Our teachers are also trained to enhance their dialogue skills, fostering high-quality verbal interactions. We believe that the cognitive development process can show significant differences depending on the quality of dialogue experiences.

Additionally, I am particularly interested in how storytelling and fairy tales expand children’s representations. Broadening their imagination through stories plays a crucial role in their development. This is an area I intend to explore further as we refine our approach to early childhood education at Suwa Kindergarten.

Expanding Representations Through Nature-Based Education

One of Suwa Kindergarten’s greatest strengths is its emphasis on expanding children’s cognitive representations through nature-based education. Experiencing the natural world helps foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and a deep connection with the environment. By integrating nature into our educational philosophy, we continue to provide unique and meaningful learning opportunities for our students.

Moving forward, we will strive to create an even better educational environment that supports children’s futures to the fullest.