handbook
Table of Contents
Welcome to the ELC 2
General Program 7
ELC Goals
Special Classes 9
Music/Movement, Library, Playground Program, After-School Classes
Transportation 14
Arrival, Dismissal, Parking, Carpooling
Miscellany 20
What to Bring, Notes to Home, Lost and Found, Nut Allergies, Lunch Box Suggestions
1
Welcome to the ELC
Welcome to the American School in Japan Early Learning Center. We are looking forward to
an exciting school year with you. The mix of emotions that comes with the start of a new year at
school is familiar to all of us: a bit of worry mixed with lots of excitement about all the wondrous
possibilities that the year holds. I can promise a year of growth, friendships and exploration all
under the care of nurturing and committed teachers. The entire staff is committed to making your
childs year at the ELC special.
I want to extend a welcome to both our new and returning families. One of the strengths of the
ELC is the community that it provides for children, parents and teachers. Together we will be a
community of learners. I encourage parents to be directly involved in their childrens learning by
volunteering at school, joining the PTA and participating in the many parent education programs
that are offered throughout the year. Your childs education is a responsibility shared by you and
us. You are your childs first and most important teacher. I would like to see a strong partnership
between home and school. Please ask your questions and share information about your child with
us. Together we can make school a place where your child will feel secure and enjoy success.
The program at the ELC is designed to meet the needs of young learners. Children in the age
range of birth to eight acquire knowledge through direct sensory encounters with the world as
well as through teacher-directed learning. Our curriculum responds to the differing learning and
developmental needs of young children. Early childhood is a period of rapid mental growth and
development, and children seek out the stimuli they need to nourish their developing mental
abilities. Young children need a sound base of experiences that will be essential for later learning,
a strong sense of self-esteem, and excitement and curiosity for learning. Toward that end, our
program is based on the ways children learn. Children are encouraged to explore, manipulate, create,
dismantle and reconstruct things in their environment. The cognitive and social development of
children is best encouraged through collaboration with others, discussion, discovering the how
and why of actions, restructuring and analyzing, and developing personal meaning by the
application of what is learned. Spontaneous play, either alone or with other children, is a natural
way for young children to learn to interact with one another and to understand their environment;
play is valued and supported in our program. The program at the ELC provides experiences that
match childrens development and how they learn.
I am looking forward to getting to know all of you. Over the next 10 months, I hope that we will
become partners and friends. You have joined a program that has a long tradition of excellence.
Im proud to be a part of that and hope that you join me in that feeling.
Sincerely,
Judy Beneventi
Early Learning Center Director
October
1 N, Pre-K, K Applications for 2011-2012 School Year Begin
6 ELC Childrens Ballet for Pre-K and Kindergarten
7 ELC PTA Board Meeting, 9:00, Music Room
11 Fall Holiday, No Classes
12 PD Day, No Classes
14 ELC Admissions Open House, 9:00
21 ELC School Pictures Taken
28 ELC Parent Education Workshop, Raising Bilingual Children, 9:00
29 ELC PTA Grant Applications Due
Sweet potato digging dates TBD
November
1 Professional Development Day, No Classes
4 ELC PTA Board Meeting, 9:00, Music Room
10, 11 ELC Parent Teacher Conferences
12 Professional Development Day, No Classes
18 ELC PTA Sponsored Parent Education, 9:00
24 ELC Admissions Open House, 9:00, Library
25 12:45 Dismissal, Thanksgiving Vacation Starts
26, 27 Thanksgiving Holiday
December
2 ELC PTA Board Meeting, 9:00, Music Room
2010 -11 Handbook 3
9 ELC PTA Sponsored Parent Education
16 ELC Admissions Open House, 9:00
17 New Year Vacation Begins After Regular Dismissal
January
5 School Reconvenes
13 ELC PTA Board Meeting, 9:00, Music Room
19, 20 ELC Admissions Screening, 11-12 School Year
24 Professional Development Day, No Classes
25 ELC PTA Mid-Winter Coffee, Literacy Presentation
27 ELC Admissions Open House, 9:00
February
10 ELC PTA Board Meeting, 9:00, Music Room
11 ELC Taiko Drumming, Special Schedule
16 Admissions Open House, 9:00, Library
16 12:45 Dismissal, Mid-Winter Holiday
17, 18 Mid-Winter Holiday
24 ELC PTA Sponsored Parent Education
March
3 ELC PTA Board Meeting, 9:00, Music Room
4 Professional Development Day, No Classes
10 ELC Admissions Open House, 9:00
18 Spring Break Begins after regular dismissal
28 School Reconvenes
April
7 ELC PTA Board Meeting, 9:00, Music Room
13 ELC Petting Zoo
14 ELC Admissions Open House
20 ELC Petting Zoo, Rain Date
21 ELC PTA Sponsored Parent Education
22 Professional Development Day
May
2 GOLDEN WEEK HOLIDAY, No Classes
10 ELC PTA Change Over Lunch
12, 13 ELC Parent Teacher Conferences,
19 2011-2012, ELC PTA Board Meeting, 9:00, Music Room
June
9 12:45 Dismissal, ELC Last Day of School
Pre-Kindergarten
Assistant Teachers
Maki Hatakeyama
Yuriko Takemoto
Deel Toku
Nursery Teachers
Courtney Singer
Tammy Woolley
Playground Supervisors
Carol Go
Hisako Shimizu
Junko Tagawa
Miwa Gosh
Non-Board Positions
ELC Goals
To enhance a positive self-image, a sense of self-worth and self-direction.
To provide appropriate learning experiences through play and directed activities that will
contribute to the needs of the child in all areas of development socially, emotionally,
physically and cognitively.
To foster skills in creative thinking, problem solving and observation.
To provide meaningful and concrete experiences as the basis for learning skills and concepts.
To view each child as a unique person with individual learning styles, interests and
levels of development.
To pursue subject matter in depth through a variety of integrated learning activities.
To facilitate an environment in which children are free to learn through their own
experiences and take responsibility for their choices.
To foster responsibility, respect and empathy for themselves, others and the
environment.
To promote the understanding that process is more important than product.
To encourage parent involvement as a means for parents to take an active role in their
childrens education.
Pre-Kindergarten Program
The Pre-Kindergarten Program takes advantage of the rapidly developing independence
and social maturity of this age group. Learning cooperation and developing an
awareness of ones role in the classroom community are major goals. Curricular areas
stressed include self-expression, social skills and independence. Self-expression and
learning are promoted through the creative arts and play. Children construct their own
understandings and become creative problem solvers by experimenting with classroom
materials and interacting with their school friends. Many opportunities to experiment
with new ideas and be creative are provided. Teacher directed activities are mixed with
open work times which provide opportunities for the children to pursue their own
interests and ideas. Japanese cultural experiences are highlighted. Children learn to be
independent and responsible for their behavior and belongings. Becoming productive
members of a classroom community is emphasized.
Kindergarten Program
The Kindergarten Program is a developmentally-based program that continues the
process of hands-on learning. Childrens curiosity and interests in the world around
them, as well as teacher-chosen topics, are used as the basis of study projects. Language
development, including phonemic awareness and phonics skills, vocabulary expansion
and other pre-reading skills are incorporated into the program. The children are
encouraged to use developmental spelling. The math program, Everyday Math, is
Special Classes
Music/Movement
All ELC children attend music class taught by a trained music educator. Classes are
divided in half, allowing smaller groups of children to receive 30-minute sessions weekly.
There is also one full class group each week. Music is learned through developmentally
appropriate activities that support and respect the unique learning styles of young
children. Children are actively involved in every session as they sing, dance, experience
creative movement, and play instruments.
Library
Every week the children at each age group attend a library class. Each classroom is divided in
two, with one half going to the library at a time. Children are read to and afterward are given
the opportunity to choose a book to check out for the week. Library time builds on literacy skills
taught in the classroom and promotes a feeling of familiarity with the way libraries work and how
to use them as a resource for learning. The large and diverse library collection of both fiction and
nonfiction promotes an enthusiasm for reading which can stay with a student all through his or
her school career and beyond.
After-School Classes
The Early Learning Center provides space for after school classes. These classes are not related to
the ELC curriculum but are provided for the convenience of interested families.
It is important that children not be over-scheduled after school. It is not good for them especially
when they are so little. Theirs is a long day at school, and many are not ready to take on after school
classes. Even though there are many offerings, parents need to evaluate their childs stamina and
readiness to do an after school class. When children are resistant or too tired to participate they
do not have a positive experience. It is our recommendation that Nursery children participate
in an after school activity no more than one day a week and that the Pre-K and Kindergarten
children participate no more than two days a week. Please see Judy if you are interested in
exceeding this recommended number of classes per week. With you, she will evaluate the
appropriateness of this for your child. We are also asking that until NURSERY CHILDREN
have shown willingness to go to the after school class with ease, that a parent or helper be at school
to take them to the after school class rather than having the teachers escort them as is usually done.
Parents are asked to contact the instructor directly to arrange for enrollment, fees or a place on
the waiting list. Japanese Language and Culture, Gymnastics and Recreation, Suzuki Piano and
Violin, Ballet, Hula, Yoga and Daisy Scouts will be offered.
Mon Japanese Language and Culture sakura.mariko3@gmail.com
Tues, Thurs, Fri Gymnastics or Recreation 03-3440-0384
Wed Daisy Scouts
Wed Hula hulabootie@yahoo.com
Tues, Thurs Ballet 03-3422-4787
Various Suzuki Piano or Violin 03-3295-0270
Parents and younger siblings are asked to stay in the Family Room or outside of the Community
Room or Music Room while waiting for children to finish an after school class. Classrooms are
being cleaned, and teachers are planning in their classrooms during this time. The playground is
closed for cleaning as well.
Petting Zoo
Once a year the Petting Zoo takes over the ELC playground. Rabbits, sheep, turtles, dogs, guinea
pigs and a variety of other animals are available for observing and handling. This event coincides
with classroom studies of animals. Parent volunteers act as monitors to help children handle the
animals properly. The children love this special day!
Parent-Teacher Association
The ELC PTA is a vital part of the ELC Community. The Board consists of members who are
nominated and elected each spring to serve through the following school year. The headmaster,
Classroom Volunteers
After an initial settling-in period for children, parents are encouraged to volunteer in their childs
classroom. Besides attending field trips, parents can present an activity, take dictation for photo
albums and journals, read a story, or share a special talent or interest. Parents often help with
special cooking or art projects. Prior to volunteering, parents should check with the classroom
teacher on procedures, day, time and materials needed.
Substitute Teaching
Parents who have the ability and interest to work with large groups of young children
may sign-up to be placed on a substitute list. A substitute training and orientation
session takes place in September.
Conferences
Three parent-teacher conferences are held during the year. At the beginning of the year
a get acquainted conference is held where parents have the opportunity to tell the
teachers about their child. In November, parent-teacher conferences are conducted.
Parents are informed of their childs adjustment to school as well as his or her goals for
the year. In May, a final parent-teacher conference is scheduled. Teachers share childrens
progress toward goals and achievements during the year. Child care is provided during
conferences. It is common for informal communication and discussions to take place
during the year between parents and teachers regarding a childs school life.
Newsletters
At the end of most weeks, the directors newsletter, News and Notes, is posted on the Mustangs
Online, the ASIJ PTA/Parent site. This newsletter contains information about school events
and news, requests and PTA news. You can access this site at <http://www.asij.ac.jp>. A monthly
classroom newsletter is posted telling parents about classroom curriculum projects, events and
teacher requests. More frequent newsflashes will be sent by teachers as needed.
School Directory
In the fall, the ASIJ School Directory is distributed to each family. The Directory
contains the names, addresses and phone numbers of all ASIJ families, faculty and staff.
The ELC PTA produces a small purse-size directory with contact information for all
ELC families early in the year.
DVD Library
The PTA operates a nonprofit childrens DVD Library. Parents may join by donating 1,000 so
the DVD Library can purchase new DVDs. The DVD Library has approx. 400 age-appropriate
DVDs. The DVD Library hours are published each fall. The DVD library is located for parents
convenience in the Family Room. There is a drop-box located just inside the Family Room for
returning DVDs to the Library.
Parent Education
The ELC provides parent education through the PTAs Parent Education series. Speakers on
a variety of topics pertaining to young children present. In the past we have had outstanding
presentations by educators, psychologists and speech therapists. Childcare for younger children is
usually offered to parents who wish to attend a parent education session. Parents are asked to call
the parent education coordinator prior to the session to arrange for care.
Room Mothers
Generally two moms from each class are designated to act as room mothers. These moms
are recruited by the teacher or simply volunteer. Their function is to act as a liaison
between the teachers and other parents of the class. Duties often include soliciting
volunteers for various class projects, outings or celebrations. These moms sometimes
help facilitate social interaction between other parents as well.
Arrival
Parents line up single file in cars and the director opens the door at 8:25am. The director and
supervisors assist with unloading children from their cars. There is no need for parents or drivers
to leave the car. There is no parking on the road (not even for a short while). If you wish to walk
your child into class, park in a neighborhood lot. We recommend P9, P10 or P11. Parents or care
givers who walk with the children to school are welcome to enter and wait in the Family Room
until classrooms open at 8:25 am. It is difficult for young children to enter the group late once
activities have begun. Please make a point of getting your child to school on time.
Dismissal
Traffic flow is the same as arrival time. Children who are going home by car are brought down
to the pick up point by their teacher between 2:20-2:30pm. Teachers put children in cars and
make sure they buckle up. Do not leave your car unattended for any reason during pick-up time.
Walking parents are asked to pick up their children from their classrooms where one teacher will
be waiting with them. Please dont linger too long as it can become quite congested.
Parking
Parking is available in Roppongi Hills parking lots P9, P10, and P11. Parents may purchase
discount parking tickets from the office to park in these lots. We ask that parents not park on the
street or block driveways or entryways. We are doing our best to be good neighbors.
Carpooling
Parents interested in being in a carpool are given a form to fill out at the beginning of the year. Lists
of parents interested in carpooling are then distributed.
Transition Schedule
At the beginning of the year, the first six days of school are devoted to a transition schedule where
children can learn the daily routine and teachers can provide more individualized care. The first
two days are half days with half the children in attendance. The following four days are full days
with half the class attending every other day.
School Closure
Occasionally school may be closed due to snow, typhoon or train strikes. Closures will be posted
on mustangsonline and an all school email will be sent to all parents.
Attendance
Children are expected to attend school each day, for the full day (8:30am-2:30pm).
We ask that children arrive at school on time to start the day.
Parents must notify the school if your child will not attend school for any reason.
Withdrawal
Please notify the school as early as you can if your child will be leaving during the school
year. Send in a letter or email notifying the school so that a Change of Status form can
be completed and tuition refunds arranged. The teachers will plan with you for your
childs closure and sayonara activities.
Food
Gum, candy and gummy fruit snacks are not allowed at school.
Nutritious lunches high in fruits and vegetables and low in junk food are requested.
(See recommendations.)
Drinks are optional. Milk is provided with lunch. Juice and water are available during
the day.
Desserts should be small and low in sugar content.
Children should eat a nutritious breakfast, including protein, each morning.
Holidays
Any holiday celebrations that we have are age appropriate. Some classrooms may focus on a
particular holiday, yet other classrooms may not. Individual teachers will inform you of these
celebrations. Many Japanese holidays are celebrated as part of our Japanese culture curriculum.
Parents are encouraged to share their cultural customs and holidays with the children.
Birthdays
Childrens birthdays are celebrated at school. See your childs teacher regarding procedures. We ask
that you not bring party bags to school to distribute to children. To avoid hurt feelings, birthday
party invitations must be distributed outside of school unless the whole class is invited. It is not
an expectation that every child be invited to a birthday party. If you choose to do so, please make
appropriate supervision arrangements for this large group of children. A good rule of thumb for
young children is to invite the number of children that corresponds with the childs age.
References
Mayo Clinic. Parental dilemma: What to do when your child is sick. 2004 [online} Available from
URL <http://www.mayoclinic.com/invoke.cfm>.
National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care. Medication Administration in Child
Care Settings. [Online} Available from URL <http://nrc.uchsc.edu/TIPS/medadmin.htm>.
Emergency Drills
At the beginning of the school year emergency evacuation plans are distributed to parents. During
the year both fire or earthquake drills are practiced on a monthly basis.
Notes to Home
School and classroom notes and announcements often are sent home through the
children. To ensure that notes make it to parents, teachers use folders. Make sure your
child has his/her folder every day.
Nut Allergies
The ELC IS A NUT FREE/PEANUT FREE SCHOOL. This policy includes peanut butter.
I realize that this may be difficult for you-- especially if your childs favorite lunch food is peanut
butter, but allergies are of a great concern for us, and we have many children with severe allergies.
There are children in all age groups who need to keep Epi Pens on site and a couple who respond
to any contact with allergens. They do not need to ingest the food in order for there to be a
reaction. I need to ask you to refrain from sending nuts, peanuts, peanut butter, nut and peanut
products in your childs lunch or in special treats that you bring to school. I greatly appreciate
your understanding and support in this matter. While we cannot guarantee a peanut/nut free
environment, we want to do all that we can to avoid an allergic reaction or a medical emergency.
Safety at school is our number one concern. Many, many schools and centers in the United States
also prohibit nuts and peanuts.
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Chofu Campus:
1-1-1 Nomizu, Chofu-shi, Tokyo 182-0031
Tel: 0422-34-5300, Fax: 0422-34-5303
Early Learning Center:
6-16-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032
Tel: 03-5771-4344, Fax: 03-5771-4341
Email: <info@asij ac.jp> Web: <www.asij.ac.jp>