The title is taken from the lyrics of the song “Tako Age (Kite Flying).”
True to the title, the children have been completely absorbed in flying kites, undeterred by the cold weather or illnesses such as influenza and COVID.
Since the start of the third term, the children have been enjoying traditional New Year’s games such as spinning tops, Daruma-otoshi, and Fukuwarai. Inspired by the authentic kites made by the Pear class, each group created their own kites.
Even in the cold, the children shrugged off their jackets, saying they got in the way, and eagerly experimented with how to make their kites fly higher.
They discovered that making the string too long caused tangles, and that running in the same direction as the wind wouldn’t lift the kite. With each attempt, they became better at flying them. Promising, “Let’s do it again tomorrow!” they ran around energetically, unfazed by the cold.
A Shishimai (Lion Dance) Visit on January 23
A Shishimai visited the school on January 23.
Some children mistook it for the Setsubun demon, reacting with comments like, “Huh? That’s scary!” and “I don’t like it,” shrinking back or trying to sit behind others.
To help them understand, we read a New Year-themed picture book and explained what a Shishimai is, reassuring them that it isn’t something to be afraid of. Then, at last, the Shishimai appeared☆
Seeing its gentle face, the children seemed more at ease and listened carefully to the explanation.
The story showed the shishimai dancing, becoming tired and falling asleep, only to be teased by a Hyottoko, who then gets scolded. During the scolding scene, the children burst into laughter, and at the end, each child had their head or hand gently “bitten” by the shishimai.
It was a precious opportunity to interact with a real Shishimai. Since everyone was “bitten,” we hope that this year will bring good health and many happy things for all of them ♡
