ASIJ Early Learning Center Handbook 2010-11

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>

handbook10-11ELC

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Table of ContentsWelcome to the ELC 2

2009-10 ELC School Calendar 3

2009-10 ELC Faculty and Staff 5

2009-10 ELC PTA Executive Board 6

General Program 7ELC Goals

Age Level Information 8Nursery Program, Pre-Kindergarten Program,Kindergarten Program, Learning Support Program

Special Classes 9Music/Movement, Library, Playground Program, After-School Classes

Japanese Culture Program 10

Special Programs and Events 11 Field Trips, Petting Zoo

Parent Involvement and Communication 11Parent-Teacher Association,Classroom Volunteers, Substitute Teaching, Conferences, Newsletters, Parent/Community Bulletin Boards,School Directory, DVD Library, Parent Education, Parent Education, Room Mothers, PTA Back to School Potluck

Transportation 14Arrival, Dismissal, Parking, Carpooling

Policies and Procedures 14Schedules, Transition Schedule, School Closure, Attendance, Parents Absence from Tokyo, Withdrawal, Release of Child to Others, Clothing — Label All!, Items From Home, Food, Holidays, Birthdays

Health and Safety 17Health Exclusion Policy, When Does a Child Need to Stay Home?, Medication Administration Procedure, Emergency Drills, Earthquake and Disaster Preparations

Miscellany 20What to Bring, Notes to Home, Lost and Found, Nut Allergies, Lunch Box Suggestions

Getting to the ELC 22

2010-11 Academic Calendar 24

ASIJ Early Learning Center2

Welcome to the ELCWelcome 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 child’s 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 children’s learning by volunteering at school, joining the PTA and participating in the many parent education programs that are offered throughout the year. Your child’s education is a responsibility shared by you and us. You are your child’s 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 children’s 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. I’m proud to be a part of that and hope that you join me in that feeling.

Sincerely,Judy Beneventi

Early Learning Center Director

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2010-11 ELC School CalendarAugust 24 AllFacultyonDuty30 ELCNewParentOrientationandNurseryScreening,1:00&2:0031 ELCPTATeacherWelcomeLunchSeptember1 ELCTransitionScheduleBegins9 ELCRegularScheduleBegins9 ELCPTABoardMeeting,9:00,MusicRoom10 ELCBacktoSchoolNight10 SuzukiPianoandViolinOrientation,9:0015 ELCSubstituteWorkshop,9:00,Library16 ELCParentEducationWorkshop,TheASIJWay23 ELCFallFamilyPicnic29 NurseryandPre-KCoffee,9:00,CommunityRoom30 KindergartenCoffee,9:00,CommunityRoom

October1 N,Pre-K,KApplicationsfor2011-2012SchoolYearBegin6 ELCChildren’sBalletforPre-KandKindergarten7 ELCPTABoardMeeting,9:00,MusicRoom11 FallHoliday,NoClasses12 PDDay,NoClasses14 ELCAdmissionsOpenHouse,9:0021 ELCSchoolPicturesTaken28 ELCParentEducationWorkshop,RaisingBilingualChildren,9:0029 ELCPTAGrantApplicationsDue Sweet potato digging dates TBD

November 1 ProfessionalDevelopmentDay,NoClasses4 ELCPTABoardMeeting,9:00,MusicRoom10,11 ELCParentTeacherConferences12 ProfessionalDevelopmentDay,NoClasses18 ELCPTASponsoredParentEducation,9:0024 ELCAdmissionsOpenHouse,9:00,Library25 12:45Dismissal,ThanksgivingVacationStarts26,27 ThanksgivingHoliday

December 2 ELCPTABoardMeeting,9:00,MusicRoom


9 ELCPTASponsoredParentEducation16 ELCAdmissionsOpenHouse,9:0017 NewYearVacationBeginsAfterRegularDismissal

January 5 SchoolReconvenes13 ELCPTABoardMeeting,9:00,MusicRoom19,20 ELCAdmissionsScreening,11-12SchoolYear24 ProfessionalDevelopmentDay,NoClasses25 ELCPTAMid-WinterCoffee,LiteracyPresentation27 ELCAdmissionsOpenHouse,9:00

February 10 ELCPTABoardMeeting,9:00,MusicRoom11 ELCTaikoDrumming,SpecialSchedule16 AdmissionsOpenHouse,9:00,Library16 12:45Dismissal,Mid-WinterHoliday17,18 Mid-WinterHoliday24 ELCPTASponsoredParentEducation

March3 ELCPTABoardMeeting,9:00,MusicRoom4 ProfessionalDevelopmentDay,NoClasses10 ELCAdmissionsOpenHouse,9:0018 SpringBreakBeginsafterregulardismissal28 SchoolReconvenes

April7 ELCPTABoardMeeting,9:00,MusicRoom13 ELCPettingZoo14 ELCAdmissionsOpenHouse20 ELCPettingZoo,RainDate21 ELCPTASponsoredParentEducation22 ProfessionalDevelopmentDay

May2 GOLDENWEEKHOLIDAY,NoClasses10 ELCPTAChangeOverLunch12,13 ELCParentTeacherConferences,19 2011-2012,ELCPTABoardMeeting,9:00,MusicRoom

June9 12:45Dismissal,ELCLastDayof School

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2010-11 ELC Faculty / StaffKindergarten TeachersCris LozonBarbara SaleConnie Shimizu

Kindergarten Assistant TeachersMerete KroppJoanne MarlayBushra Uetake

Pre-Kindergarten TeachersMary EcksteinMartha MundyNeal Murphy

Pre-Kindergarten Assistant TeachersMaki HatakeyamaYuriko TakemotoDeel Toku

Nursery TeachersCourtney SingerTammy Woolley

Nursery Assistant TeachersRina HaraMia Kain (Caroline Khine)

Playground SupervisorsCarol GoHisako Shimizu Junko Tagawa Miwa Gosh

Speach and Language TherapistLearning Support TeacherMarsha Rosenberg

Music Teacher Mayuka Suzuki

LibrarianDon Maynard

Secretary Shinobu MorohoshiYuko Hoshino

Director Judy Beneventi


ELC PTA / Executive BoardPresident Abbie Chessler Salsberg

VP/Fundraising Susan Seltzer

VP/Communications Christine Conner

Winterfest Co-Chairs Rebecca Francis, Marianne Kiil, and Heidi Mulcahy

Gala Co-Chairs Susan Lin and Emma Ward

Secretary Yvette Hollingshead

Treasurer Ayako Owens

N-2-N Griselda Suner

Room Parent Coordinator Ellen Loomis

Media Services Stephanie Quinnild

Social Committee Co-Chairs Stephanie Toppino and Lori France

Yearbook Co-Chairs Gina Capizzi, Lottie Rezneck, Kate Clark

Community Services Co-Chairs Lily Nguyen and Kazuko Daniel

Parent Ed Co-Chairs Cassy Guttenfelder and Allison Leoni

Non-Board Positions

Scholastic Miranda Howard

Omochi Pounding Hiroko Barringer and Yuka Quantrille

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General Program

For many children, the Early Learning Center is their first experience with a full-day, full-week, educational program. We provide children with a stimulating, safe and nurturing environment in which to learn. We strive to make the initial school experience successful by introducing developmentally appropriate materials that are interesting, meaningful and challenging for the child. In our program, we address all of the areas of a child’s development: social and emotional, cognitive and creative, muscle and motor. We encourage children to learn to solve their own problems, and we foster creativity. Art is a form of creative expression and a way for children to come to better understand their world. Children are learning to listen to each other, to share, to negotiate differences, to give and take, and to extend their thinking and ideas. All of this happens through teachers working with the children individually, in small groups and in whole class situations. Much of the children’s learning is in the form of a project. A project is an in-depth study of a topic. There are three distinct phases to each project. The first is the planning phase where teachers are able to assess what children know and what questions the children are asking. In the second phase, teachers and children research a topic using as many resources as possible. The teachers then develop learning strategies that are appropriate as the project unfolds. The last phase of the project is the culminating event. This final presentation is the documentation of all the collaborative and individual efforts.

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 children’s education.


The Early Learning Center is made up of eight classrooms with two classes at the Nursery level and three each at Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten. There are two teachers per classroom: a head teacher and an assistant teacher. The maximum class size is 18 for each nursery class, 20 for each pre-kindergarten class and 22 for each kindergarten class. We strive to maintain a relative balance of girls and boys in each class.

Age Level Information

Nursery ProgramFor many young children entering our Nursery Program, this will be their first experience in a full-day, large-group setting. Emphasis is placed on social/emotional development and self-care skills. Children are guided through separation difficulties and learn a daily routine and how to function as a responsible member of a group. Learning to take care of one’s belongings, constructively entering play situations, settling disagreements with words, and learning to share are all goals for these children. Learning is experiential at this stage and includes the use of a variety of manipulatives, tactile experiences and an emphasis on developing language. Nursery children engage in studies that integrate art, science, social studies, math and language throughout the year. The children draw on many experiences to make meaning of their world.

Pre-Kindergarten ProgramThe Pre-Kindergarten Program takes advantage of the rapidly developing independence and social maturity of this age group. Learning cooperation and developing an awareness of one’s 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 ProgramThe Kindergarten Program is a developmentally-based program that continues the process of hands-on learning. Children’s 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

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based on problem solving and involves the use of a variety of manipulatives and games. Everyday Math is supplemented by the Math Their Way program. Social and emotional skills are emphasized and supported as children become responsible class members, risk-takers, problem solvers and cooperative learners. Kindergarten children do an in-depth project of some aspect of Japanese culture. Projects previously studied are Japanese kanji, Japanese kamishibai (storytelling), soba, taiko drums, sumo and trains.You will receive copies of the daily schedule from your child’s teacher at the start of the school year. In the course of each day, there will be a circle/ meeting time, outdoor play, choice time, teacher directed time, activities, rest time and story time.

Learning Support Program The Learning Support Program is designed to provide individual or small group instruction for students who need assistance in speech and/or language, who are not native English speakers (English for Speakers of Others Languages or ESOL) or who have mild learning difficulties. The Learning Support Program includes an early literacy introduction in the pre-k classes and a beginning reading and writing program in the kindergarten classes. Early intervention for students having difficulties acquiring literacy skills is provided. At the beginning of the year a trained professional screens all 4-year-olds and new kindergartners for speech, language and concept development. Younger children may be referred by a parent or teacher. A comprehensive plan for each child is coordinated between the learning support teacher, classroom teachers and parents.

Special Classes

Music/MovementAll 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.

LibraryEvery 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.


Playground ProgramMost mornings playground teachers offer a special activity in the Community Room. Children participate in the activity or engage in free play. These activities are coordinated between the classroom teachers and the playground supervisor. Often they extend classroom themes. Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten children have opportunities to play at “Robot Park” next to the ELC.

After-School ClassesThe 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 child’s 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 [email protected], Thurs, Fri Gymnastics or Recreation 03-3440-0384Wed Daisy Scouts Wed Hula [email protected], Thurs Ballet 03-3422-4787Various Suzuki Piano or Violin 03-3295-0270Parents 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.

Japanese Culture ProgramThe ELC teachers are dedicated to helping our children experience and understand the culture in which they are so fortunate to live. The Japanese Culture Program runs throughout the year.

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Japanese holidays and customs provide the starting point for activities that integrate Japanese arts and crafts, songs, food, traditional clothing, children’s literature, games and toys.Don’t miss the sweet potato dig in November, kimono dressing in January or the taiko drum performance in February for fantastic Japanese cultural edification. Informal instruction in Japanese language happens all year long. Irasshaimase! That’s a common welcome word you might hear when you come to school. Children also use greeting and courtesy words, number words and learn some beautiful songs in Japanese. This is the way children learn and remember language best because it is regularly used in meaningful contexts. There is a special collection of Japanese books in each classroom. Formal Japanese language instruction begins at ASIj from first grade on the Chofu campus. These kind and respectful children are our best cultural bridge for expatriates living in Tokyo. They will teach you about everything from onigiri to obi and sumo to soba.

Special Programs and Events

Field TripsDuring the year, each class takes part in off-site field trips. Buses from the Chofu campus or private companies may be used to transport children. Throughout the year classes have the option to travel to different locations that coincide with specific projects or topics of study. Walking field trips in the neighborhood are also part of classroom projects. At the beginning of the school year, parents are asked to sign a permission slip that covers walking trips. Permission slips will also be sent home each time students travel away from campus by bus. It is generally requested that parents accompany children on these trips.

Petting ZooOnce 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 Involvement and Communication

The ELC sees parents as active participants in their children’s education. Therefore we strive to provide parents with the opportunity to take an active role in their child’s education. A variety of opportunities are made available for parents to get involved and communicate with the school.

Parent-Teacher AssociationThe 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,


ELC Director and a teacher representative also sit on the Board. The board meets nearly every month. It is this board that brings together the ideas, suggestions, concerns and requests of its peers. It is also this board that organizes and implements plans for our major fund-raising events. Other activities planned by the board include the Welcoming Event, the Petting Zoo, the Parent Education Series, and the yearbook. The board also allocates funds for ongoing gifts and special one-time gifts to the school.The ELC PTA represents the entire parent and teacher population. Parents are encouraged to get to know PTA board members and to attend the monthly meetings. Offer your suggestions and concerns to these members to be put before the board. It is only in this way that the PTA can function to best serve everyone and continue the tradition of strong parental involvement at the ELC.

Classroom VolunteersAfter an initial settling-in period for children, parents are encouraged to volunteer in their child’s 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 TeachingParents 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.

ConferencesThree 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 child’s adjustment to school as well as his or her goals for the year. In May, a final parent-teacher conference is scheduled. Teachers share children’s 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 child’s school life.

NewslettersAt the end of most weeks, the director’s 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.

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Parent/Community Bulletin BoardsThere is a bulletin board displayed in the Family Room to provide information for parents. It contains information on school events, community events, parenting, PTA Board minutes, items for sale and services requested. Also in the family room are flyers and information about special events in the community.

School DirectoryIn 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 LibraryThe PTA operates a nonprofit children’s 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 DVD’s. 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 DVD’s to the Library.

Parent EducationThe ELC provides parent education through the PTA’s 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 MothersGenerally 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.

PTA Back To School PotluckAll parents of ELC are invited to attend the annual Friday evening potluck in the fall. This evening affords parents the opportunity to meet the parents of their child’s classmates. After beverages are served, each teacher gathers the parents together for introductions, an orientation to the class room, and an overview of the year ahead.


Transportation

Parents and other caregivers transport children to school. There is no bus service to or from the ELC. A system for arrival/dismissal makes these times as smooth as possible.

ArrivalParents 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.

DismissalTraffic 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 don’t linger too long as it can become quite congested.

ParkingParking 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.

CarpoolingParents 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.

Policies and Procedures

In an effort to make the Early Learning Center the best school possible we need both your involvement and your cooperation. The following policies and procedures have been developed so the Early Learning Center can function effectively and efficiently. Please read them over carefully, and then take responsibility for yourself and your child in following them.

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SchedulesFor the most part, the Early Learning Center follows the same yearly calendar as the Chofu campus. The Early Learning Center, however, occasionally has dates that do not coincide with the Chofu calendar. All major holidays are the same. Please refer to the ELC calendar at the front of this handbook for those dates. At the beginning of the year, the ASIJ Calendar is distributed to each family. Early Learning Center events are designated by “ELC” on the ASIJ Calendar. Included on this calendar are Professional Development Days that are set aside for in-service training, program and parent conference planning, and curriculum revision and articulation.Each classroom follows a basic daily schedule that includes a morning activity time, a snack time, a large group meeting time and an outdoor period when classes at an age group are outside together. Afternoons include a story time, lunch, rest period, outdoor time, an activity time and closing meeting time. You will receive a copy of your child’s class schedule at the beginning of the year.

Transition ScheduleAt 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.

Parents Absence from Tokyo• Please notify the school if both parents will be out of town. When both parents are going to be out of town, it is asked that parents complete a notification form. The form can be found on Mustangs Online.1. Please complete the form and fax/send it to the Director’s office at least one week prior to your planned departure from Tokyo, if possible.2. One form will do for all the children in your family. The school will distribute it to the appropriate offices if you have children in other divisions of the school. However, if different guardians are involved, please complete a separate form for each child in the family.3. Please complete a separate form for each trip planned away from Tokyo.


4. We ask too that you inform the ELC of special pick up arrangements that have been made for during your time away.

WithdrawalPlease 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 child’s closure and sayonara activities.

Release of Child to OthersIf your child will be going home on a regular basis with someone other than yourself (housekeeper, neighbor, carpool), written permission must be given by filling out the release form distributed during the beginning of school. If your child will be going with someone else for the occasional play date or birthday parties, written permission must be given prior to release.

Clothing — Label All!• Please label all of your child’s school clothing.• We suggest that all children wear Velcro or slip-on shoes until they are able to manage ties on their own. We ask that children not wear sandals to school. Sandals can be slippery and dangerous on the playground.• All children must have a complete change of clothes at school.• Please provide rain gear and boots that can stay at school. We go out rain or shine!

Items From HomeChildren are asked not to bring toys or money from home. For safety reasons, we also ask that the children do not wear watches or jewelry to school. We cannot be responsible for lost or broken items. Occasionally teachers will provide for sharing days and inform parents of appropriate items to be brought in. If a child has a particular item needed for rest, please speak with his or her teacher.

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.

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• Nutritious, balanced kunches with healthy carbohydrates, protein, fruits and vegetables are needed for good brain function and energy.• Fresh fruit is the best dessert. Other dessert must be small and low in sugar content.• We are a peanut/nut-free school – please refrain from sending nuts, peanuts, peanut butter, nut and peanut products in your child’s lunch or in special treats that you bring to school.

HolidaysAny 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.

BirthdaysChildren’s birthdays are celebrated at school. See your child’s 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 child’s age.

Health and Safety

Health Exclusion PolicyThese guidelines have been developed to prevent spread of infectious diseases among children. The policy aims to protect the ill as well as the healthy child. In order to create and promote a safe school environment, parents are requested to keep sick children at home. Sending an ill child to school not only creates a major health risk to all children and teachers but is terribly unfair to the sick child as well. Plus, recovery time is shorter for a sick child who is given plenty of rest and tender loving care.

When Does a Child Need to Stay Home?In general, children should stay home when they don’t feel well enough to participate in all of the activities of a normal day and lack sufficient alertness to learn and play.The following symptoms, signs or conditions are cause for missing school:• Temperature of 102 F (38.9C) rectally, 100 F (37.8C) orally or 99 (37.2C) axially (under the arm) in the past 24 hours. Return to school only after temperature has been normal for 24 hours.• Vomiting over a 24 hour period or being unable to tolerate normal food and drink.


Only return to school when vomiting has stopped for a period of 24 hours and normal appetite and activity levels have returned.• Diarrhea (runny, watery or bloody stools) in the past 24 hours. Return to school after first normal bowel movement and when appetite and activity return to normal levels.• Sore throat with fever and/or red throat patches.• Eye discharge. • Excessively runny nose or productive cough, especially with yellow/ green drainage or sputum or accompanied by a fever.• Chickenpox––return to school after all blisters have formed scabs or crusts (usually 6-7 days after the onset of rash).• Unexplained body rash or rash associated with or preceded by a fever.• Head lice, pink eye, scabies.• When a child is irritable, lethargic or continuously crying.If unsure about any symptoms or signs, please consult a local physician.Parents will be contacted to pick up their child if he/she develops any of the above mentioned symptoms or signs during the school day. Parent must provide a contact person for when your child becomes sick at school and you are unavailable. If your child is too sick to play outside or to participate in active play, please keep him or her at home. Please contact the Director’s office when your child will not attend school.Please notify the school immediately should your child become ill with any of the following communicable diseases: Conjunctivitis (pink eye), impetigo, Streptococcus throat infection, chickenpox, measles, mumps, rubella, scarlet fever, Fifth disease, whooping cough, Hepatitis A, pneumonia, meningitis, encephalitis, tuberculosis or head lice. When a school member is diagnosed with any of these diseases, the Director will inform all parents immediately.In the event of a serious medical emergency, an ambulance will be called or the child will be transported to a nearby hospital or clinic for treatment. Parents will be notified immediately. It is very important that all contact details (including cellular phone numbers) are current. Be sure to have current emergency contact information at the school.

Medication Administration ProcedureStaff members will only administer medication to a child when the following requirements are met:• The school has to receive written and signed consent from the parent to administer any medication (prescription and over the counter). (Administration of Medication forms are given to parents at the beginning of the school year, are available from the office and one on MOL.)• The child’s licensed physician should issue a signed medication order for both prescription and over the counter drugs. The label on a prescription drug is an acceptable directive from the physician provided it has an appropriately recent date.

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• Prescription medication must come in the original pharmacy labeled containers showing the child’s name, doctor’s name, name of medication, current and expiration dates and administration instructions. Storage instructions (e.g. refrigeration) should also be provided. It may be helpful to ask the pharmacy to provide separate containers for home and school.• A parent or responsible adult must deliver medication with proper measuring utensils to the school. It can be handed to the Director or a supervisor in the car drop off line or handed to the teacher when a child is walked into the school accompanied by a parent or caregiver. No more than a thirty-day supply should be delivered.• The ELC Director or a designated Teacher will administer the medication and will document each administration of the Administration of Medication Form. Any adverse or allergic reactions will be recorded and acted upon. Please do not have the first dose of a new medication be administered at school. Parents will be informed as to the time and dose of medication given if anything unusual occurred.• Please notify the Director or Teacher when a morning dose has been given at home.• Parents will be contacted to administer a dose in person when a child refuses medication.• Medication will be kept in a safe location and in accordance to storage requirements.• No child will receive medication that has been prescribed for someone else.

ReferencesMayo 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 DrillsAt 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.

Earthquake and Disaster PreparationsIn the event of an earthquake or major disaster, the ELC has enough provisions to accommodate the children and faculty for up to three days if necessary. Cellular sattelite, and two-way communication have been set up and a written evacuation plan is in place. We will always remain on site unless the condition of the building or surrounding area warrants otherwise. There is a public evacuation area within walking distance of the building.


Miscellany

What to BringParents are asked to provide the following items for their child:• Lunch in a lunch box with containers that the child is able to open with ease. • Resting mat, approximate size 70cm x 140cm (30” x 60”) — something a child can fold herself (such as a blanket, towel, small quilt).• One or two complete changes of clothes including socks and underwear and shoes. All clothing must be labeled with the child’s name.• Rain boots and a raincoat that can stay at school.

Notes to HomeSchool 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.

Lost and FoundLocated in the Family Room, a Lost and Found bin contains all clothing items abandoned during the school day. It is suggested that parents periodically check the box for missing items, as clothing is recycled or donated at midyear and at the end of the school year.

Lunch Box SuggestionsAll children are required to bring lunch from home each day in easy-opening containers. Milk, water or juice is provided. Refrigeration and microwaves are not available, so insulated lunch boxes, ice packs and thermoses are helpful. Children younger than four years old should not be fed any round, firm food unless it is chopped completely. The following foods are considered to be choking hazards by the American Red Cross for children: hot dogs, nuts, chunks of meat or cheese, hard or sticky candy, popcorn, whole grapes and chunks of peanut butter. Please be sure to chop these items if you include them in your child’s lunch. Parents are strongly encouraged to assist by packing healthy lunches that are low in sugar and free of “junk food.” A list of suggestions follows:• Sandwiches: egg salad, tuna fish, jelly or honey, cheese, meat, bacon-lettuce-tomato, turkey.• Vegetables: carrots, celery, cucumbers, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, cherry tomatoes. These can be raw and thinly sliced, plain, or spread thinly, with or dipped into yogurt, fruit dip or cream cheese.• Fruit: cut up apples, nashi (Japanese pears), kiwi, pineapple, bananas, strawberries, cut grapes, pears, oranges and mikan. Also applesauce or canned fruit may be sent in a plastic container. • Dried fruit such as raisins, apricots and banana chips.

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• Sliced hot dogs on a bun or chopped; salami slices, beef jerky, sushi, fish sticks or croquettes, scrambled eggs, quiche.• Cheese: sticks, slices, cream cheese spread on fruit, bread or vegetables.• Wheat buns, or wholewheat crackers.• Rice and vegetables; rice with chicken and vegetables.• Pasta with various sauces.• Hot soup, ravioli, pork and beans, noodles — these may be sent in a thermos.• Many children like their favorite foods leftover from dinner.

Nut AllergiesThe 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 child’s 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 child’s 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.


Getting to the ELC

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From the giant spider in front of Roppongi Hills/Roppongi Hills Parking:From the spider, proceed away fromRoppongi-dori towardMoto-Azabu, as if youwereheadingtowardthemovietheaters.Afterabout100morso,lookforthestairwayandescalatorgoingdown.Thisstairway/escalatorisneartheamphitheater/arena.Godownonelevel,andthenkeepwalkinginthesamedirectiontocrossthebridgeoverKeyakizaka-dori.SoonyouwillseetheASIJELCsignonabuildinginfrontof you.Youwill travelbetweentwolarge40-storyredbuildings.Beartoyourrightwiththesidewalk and keep going.Youwill eventually cross over another street, Sakurazaka-dori.Onyour rightyouwill seea smallchildren’splayground.Keepgoingpast thatplayground,down8stairstothestreetlevel.Turnleft.Walkpastthechurchbuilding.Betweenthechurchandourbuildingyouwilltakealeftandwalkalongthepassagetoourfrontentrance,whichwillbeonyourrightattheendof thepassage.Hereyoucanringthebelltoenterthroughthedolphingateandthefrontdoorof theschool.ThenearestpublicparkingisLotP9of RoppongiHills.TheASIJELCislocatedacrossthestreetandslightlyuphillfromtheautomobileentrancetoP9.Lookforthebuildingwiththe two-story spiral ramp/staircaseoutside.Youcancut throughusing the sidewalknexttothebuilding.

From Tsutaya/Starbucks corner on the southeast corner of Roppongi Hills:FromtheTsutaya/Starbucksdoors,turnleftontoKeyakizaka-dori,whichisthemainstreet on this side of RoppongiHills. Follow this sidewalk up the hill past severalbuildings.YouwillpasstheIsseyMiyakestoreontheleft,followedbytheLouisVuittonstoreontheleft.InafewmetersyouwillseetheMiniCooperRoppongiautodealerwindow.ImmediatelypasttheMiniwindow,youwillseeanelevatorandstairsleadinguptotheleft.Takeeitherthestairsortheelevatoruptothenextlevel.Lookingstraightaheadasyouexitthestaircaseorelevator,youwillseetheASIJELCsignonthefaceof abuildinginfrontof you.WalktowardtheELCandfollowdirectionsabove.


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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>

Student Learning OutcomesASIJ educates students to become:

Effective Communicators who:• Express ideas, emotions and personal experiences clearly and creatively through the written and spoken word and through the arts.• Listen critically with understanding and empathy.

Literate Individuals who:• Integrate learning and apply it to authentic situations.• Read fluently with comprehension for a variety of purposes.• Develop a strong foundation in all academic disciplines.• Access, analyze, evaluate and present information using diverse resources.

Critical Thinkers and Problem Solvers who:• Apply creativity and persistence, and develop awareness of their own thinking in defining problems and developing strategies to solve them.• Demonstrate flexibility in thinking.

Self-Directed, Productive Learners who:• Seek personal excellence in intellectual, artistic, practical and physical endeavors.• Independently pursue learning.• Set, achieve and reflect on personal and collective goals.• Make healthy choices.

Constructive Community Members who:• Have a clear sense of self and exhibit honesty and integrity.• Work collaboratively and effectively with others.• Show respect for the rights and tolerance of the values of others.• Develop an awareness and understanding of the host culture and other cultures.• Understand environmental issues and work to preserve the environment.• Contribute their time, energies and talents to improve the quality of life in our families, schools, communities, nation and world.• Prepare themselves for citizenship in a democratic society.

ASIJ

ASIJ Early Learning Center Handbook 2010-11

Documents

Transcript of ASIJ Early Learning Center Handbook 2010-11