Learning Centers and Jungle Play—Kindergarten

The learning centers are set up to engage students in different literacy and mathematical activities. The activities include writing, reading, math sheets and manipulatives, as well as word and board games. Students are also exposed to both sensory and fine motor skills. The workstations are set up in a manner to allow students to rotate when needed. Jungle gym time consists of outside free play and guided group games.

Coaches:

Mrs. Ahn: Kinder Learning Centers

Hello! My name is Ahn Jeong. I am currently a K4 teacher assistant. I have been working with children for more than 25 years. I enjoy seeing them bloom and grow into strong individuals. It makes me feel proud and full of joy. On weekends, I teach English lessons at my local church. My favorite hobbies include traveling, gardening, and camping. I was born and raised in Korea. I’ve lived in England, New York, L.A., Hawaii and Germany. I finally moved to Japan in 1985. I speak Korean, Japanese, and English. I consider Japan my final home.

Faye Balugo: Kinder Learning Centers

Ms. Faye is a Kinder specialist for our ASP. She facilitates Kinder Learning Centers and Jungle Play. She has been in the education field since she first arrived here in Japan eight years ago. She is proud and happy to be a part of the first school years of many children who have been under her care at Aoba. Ms. Faye received her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in the Philippines, but changed her career path when she arrived here in Japan. She is a certified in Japan as a first aider.

I love working with children, especially in the younger years. My work expands in different areas. For example, I work with three- to four-year-old students as a teacher assistant. I teach Saturday School in other Aoba campuses. Finally, I facilitate classes in Summer Camp.

Makiko Kuroda: Kinder Learning Centers

Hello, my name is Makiko and I’m in charge of Learning Centers and Jungle Play.

I spent over 10 years working in early childhood education with children from six months to six years old and also worked at some Japanese kindergartens and a music school as a eurhythmics teacher.

Now I feel that my true passion is working with kinder age children and I can provide a safe and relaxed environment after a day in class with creative and nature-oriented activities.

I have rich experiences to help children develop in all areas—physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially. I look forward to you joining our program!

We are accepting applications