ELC 10-11

handbook
Table of Contents
Welcome 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 7
ELC Goals

Age Level Information 8

Nursery Program, Pre-Kindergarten Program,Kindergarten Program, Learning Support Program

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

Japanese Culture Program 10

Special Programs and Events 11

Field Trips, Petting Zoo

Parent Involvement and Communication 11

Parent-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 14
Arrival, Dismissal, Parking, Carpooling

Policies and Procedures 14

Schedules, 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 17

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

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

Getting to the ELC 22

2010-11 Academic Calendar 24

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

2 ASIJ Early Learning Center

2010-11 ELC School Calendar
August
24 All Faculty on Duty
30 ELC New Parent Orientation and Nursery Screening, 1:00 & 2:00
31 ELC PTA Teacher Welcome Lunch

September
1 ELC Transition Schedule Begins
9 ELC Regular Schedule Begins
9 ELC PTA Board Meeting, 9:00, Music Room
10 ELC Back to School Night
10 Suzuki Piano and Violin Orientation, 9:00
15 ELC Substitute Workshop, 9:00, Library
16 ELC Parent Education Workshop, The ASIJ Way
23 ELC Fall Family Picnic
29 Nursery and Pre-K Coffee, 9:00, Community Room
30 Kindergarten Coffee, 9:00, Community Room

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

4 ASIJ Early Learning Center

2010-11 ELC Faculty / Staff
Kindergarten Teachers Music Teacher
Cris Lozon Mayuka Suzuki
Barbara Sale
Connie Shimizu Librarian
Don Maynard
Kindergarten
Assistant Teachers Secretary
Merete Kropp Shinobu Morohoshi
Joanne Marlay Yuko Hoshino
Bushra Uetake
Director
Pre-Kindergarten Teachers Judy Beneventi
Mary Eckstein
Martha Mundy
Neal Murphy

Pre-Kindergarten
Assistant Teachers
Maki Hatakeyama
Yuriko Takemoto
Deel Toku

Nursery Teachers
Courtney Singer
Tammy Woolley

Nursery Assistant Teachers

Rina Hara
Mia Kain (Caroline Khine)

Playground Supervisors
Carol Go
Hisako Shimizu
Junko Tagawa
Miwa Gosh

Speach and Language Therapist

Learning Support Teacher
Marsha Rosenberg

2010 -11 Handbook 5

ELC PTA / Executive Board
President 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

6 ASIJ Early Learning Center

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 childs 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 childrens 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
childrens education.

2010 -11 Handbook 7

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 Program
For 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 ones 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 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

8 ASIJ Early Learning Center

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 childs 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/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.

2010 -11 Handbook 9

Playground Program
Most 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 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.

Japanese Culture Program

The 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.

10 ASIJ Early Learning Center

Japanese holidays and customs provide the starting point for activities that integrate Japanese arts
and crafts, songs, food, traditional clothing, childrens literature, games and toys.
Dont 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! Thats 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 Trips
During 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 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 Involvement and Communication

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

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,

2010 -11 Handbook 11

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 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.

12 ASIJ Early Learning Center

Parent/Community Bulletin Boards
There 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 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.

PTA Back To School Potluck

All 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 childs 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.

2010 -11 Handbook 13

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.

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.

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.

14 ASIJ Early Learning Center

Schedules
For 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 childs class schedule at the beginning of the year.

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.

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 Directors 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.

2010 -11 Handbook 15

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

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.

Release of Child to Others

If 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 childs 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 Home

Children 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.

16 ASIJ Early Learning Center

 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 childs lunch or in special treats that you bring to school.

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.

Health and Safety

Health Exclusion Policy
These 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 dont 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.

2010 -11 Handbook 17

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.
Chickenpoxreturn 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 Directors 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 Procedure

Staff 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 childs 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.

18 ASIJ Early Learning Center

 Prescription medication must come in the original pharmacy labeled containers showing the
childs name, doctors 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.

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.

Earthquake and Disaster Preparations

In 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.

2010 -11 Handbook 19

Miscellany
What to Bring
Parents 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 childs name.
Rain boots and a raincoat that can stay at school.

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.

Lost and Found

Located 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 Suggestions

All 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 childs 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.

20 ASIJ Early Learning Center

 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 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.

2010 -11 Handbook 21

Getting to the ELC

22 ASIJ Early Learning Center

From the giant spider in front of Roppongi Hills/Roppongi
Hills Parking:
From the spider, proceed away from Roppongi-dori toward Moto-Azabu, as if you
were heading toward the movie theaters. After about 100m or so, look for the stairway
and escalator going down. This stairway/escalator is near the amphitheater/arena. Go
down one level, and then keep walking in the same direction to cross the bridge over
Keyakizaka-dori. Soon you will see the ASIJ ELC sign on a building in front of you.
You will travel between two large 40-story red buildings. Bear to your right with the
sidewalk and keep going. You will eventually cross over another street, Sakurazaka-
dori. On your right you will see a small childrens playground. Keep going past that
playground, down 8 stairs to the street level. Turn left. Walk past the church building.
Between the church and our building you will take a left and walk along the passage to
our front entrance, which will be on your right at the end of the passage. Here you can
ring the bell to enter through the dolphin gate and the front door of the school. The
nearest public parking is Lot P9 of Roppongi Hills. The ASIJ ELC is located across the
street and slightly uphill from the automobile entrance to P9. Look for the building with
the two-story spiral ramp/staircase outside. You can cut through using the sidewalk
next to the building.

From Tsutaya/Starbucks corner on the southeast corner of

Roppongi Hills:
From the Tsutaya/Starbucks doors, turn left onto Keyakizaka-dori, which is the main
street on this side of Roppongi Hills. Follow this sidewalk up the hill past several
buildings. You will pass the Issey Miyake store on the left, followed by the Louis Vuitton
store on the left. In a few meters you will see the Mini Cooper Roppongi auto dealer
window. Immediately past the Mini window, you will see an elevator and stairs leading
up to the left. Take either the stairs or the elevator up to the next level. Looking straight
ahead as you exit the staircase or elevator, you will see the ASIJ ELC sign on the face of
a building in front of you. Walk toward the ELC and follow directions above.

2010 -11 Handbook 23

2010-11 Academic Calendar

8 9 10
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 1 2
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
28 29 30 31 26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31

1112 1
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 1
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31

2 3 4
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
27 28 27 28 29 30 31 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

5 6 7
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
29 30 31 26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31

8
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31

24 ASIJ Early Learning Center

ASIJ Student Learning Outcomes
ASIJ 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.

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>