— A Note from the New Kindergarten Manager

If you had walked into our English class yesterday, you would have seen a rather enthusiastic scene—an Australian teacher brimming with energy, children completely immersed in the lesson, and a rhythm so perfectly structured that not a single child had the chance to drift off into daydreams about their afternoon snacks.

The class was a brisk 30-minute session, designed with careful precision to maintain the children’s attention span. It was as if the lesson were choreographed—each segment flowing seamlessly into the next, leaving no room for boredom. From interactive songs to engaging storytelling, everything was wrapped in a dynamic rhythm that kept even the most restless little minds engaged.

What struck me most was the value of exposing children to different cultures at such an early age. Having worked abroad myself, I know that breaking psychological barriers towards foreign languages is a crucial step. When working internationally, logical reasoning and persuasive communication become key, but before we even get there, we must first learn to interact without hesitation.

In early childhood education, nurturing language skills in one’s mother tongue is, of course, fundamental. Yet, introducing a foreign language alongside it—without pressure but with enjoyment—broadens perspectives in a way no textbook ever could. Watching our young learners effortlessly respond in English, uninhibited and full of curiosity, was a reminder of just how naturally adaptable children are.

Perhaps the best part? Seeing the parents witness their children’s unfiltered enthusiasm. It was not just an English class; it was a glimpse into how language can be a bridge, not a barrier. And for Suwa Kindergarten, this is just the beginning of a journey into a broader world.

昨日の英語クラスを覗いてみたら、なかなか面白い光景が広がっていた。オーストラリア出身の先生が陽気にエネルギッシュに指導し、子どもたちは集中しきっている。そして、レッスン全体に流れる心地よいリズム。誰一人として「今日のおやつは何かな？」なんて考えている暇はなさそうだった。

授業は30分。子どもたちが飽きる隙を与えないよう、細かく設計されたプログラム。歌に始まり、動きのあるアクティビティ、そしてストーリーテリングへと、テンポよく流れる。まるで巧妙に組み立てられた舞台のようで、一瞬たりとも退屈する時間はない。

改めて感じたのは、幼い頃から異文化に触れることの大切さだ。私自身、海外で働いた経験があるからこそ、言語に対する心理的な壁をなくすことがどれほど重要かを実感している。仕事となれば、論理力や説得力が求められるが、その前にまず「相手と気軽にやりとりできること」が何より大事だ。

母国語の言葉の力を育むことが幼児教育の基本であることは間違いない。しかし、そこに「楽しい」という要素とともに外国語を取り入れることで、視野がぐんと広がる。子どもたちが自然と英語を口にし、物怖じせずに反応する姿を見ていると、「この柔軟さこそ、今後の可能性を広げるカギなんだ」と改めて思う。

そして何より印象的だったのは、そんな子どもたちの姿を見守る親御さんたちの表情。英語クラスの参観は、ただの授業見学ではなく、「言葉が壁ではなく、橋になり得る」ことを実感する場になったのではないだろうか。
諏訪幼稚園にとって、これはまだ始まりに過ぎない。これからも、子どもたちがより広い世界へと踏み出せるような機会をつくっていきたい。

理事長のつぶやきえした

— A Note from the New Kindergarten Manager

Yesterday morning, under a slightly chilly, overcast sky, I walked from Nishi-Gifu Station to the prefectural office. A walk of just the right distance is always a good way to clear the mind. Having come directly from a prior engagement, I carried a rather large suitcase, enjoying the crisp winter air along the way. My visit to the prefectural office was to present the progress of Suwa Kindergarten’s business plan. Experiencing something for the first time always comes with a certain level of anticipation and nervousness. However, I do not find that discomforting—rather, I enjoy the rhythm of stepping into something new. Perhaps opening new doors always feels like this. At the prefectural office, I was assisted by a young staff member who provided clear explanations and thorough confirmations. Their professionalism and attentiveness gave me a strong sense of reassurance. I was also able to introduce the kindergarten’s new operational structure and gain understanding and support for it. Learning more about the prefecture’s support systems and administrative processes gave me valuable insight into how Suwa Kindergarten can further contribute to the improvement of education, both within the community and across Gifu Prefecture.

Suwa Kindergarten in the Upcoming Fiscal Year

The business plan for the next fiscal year, Reiwa 7, is already underway. The vision for making Suwa Kindergarten an even more vibrant and inspiring place is gradually taking shape. A kindergarten is not merely a place where children are looked after—it is a place of daily discoveries, challenges, and future possibilities. Creating an environment where children can learn with joy and expand their curiosity is our mission. As I left the prefectural office, I reflected on what we, as adults, can do to facilitate that. The sky remained overcast, but my mind felt remarkably clear and optimistic.

The Essence of Kindergarten Management

Managing a kindergarten may appear straightforward, but in reality, it is profoundly intricate. The facilities, working environment for the teachers, educational programs, and community ties—all these elements intertwine to create a nurturing space. Striking the right balance is crucial. It must not be too rigid nor too lax; rather, it requires a steady yet flexible approach to steering the institution forward. Suwa Kindergarten is set to become an even more engaging and enriching place for children, parents, and teachers alike. Our goal is to make it a place where everyone involved can genuinely say, “I am glad to be here.” I am eager to see what the future holds. With these thoughts in mind, I adjusted my grip on my large suitcase and stepped forward, leaving the Gifu Prefectural Office behind.