New Co-op

For our 9th and last week of Tuesday co-op we hosted Japan Day here. It was loads of fun and a great success. We spent some time looking at a huge map of Japan, discussing geography, climate and history. We listened to the Japanese National Anthem and a Japanese lullaby. Two of the boys taught us a couple of origami which were impressive and suprisingly difficult, yet both these boys had them well practiced. One of the boys taught us how to make sushi. I had never made it before but after this experience we are sure to try it again.

Here are some photos from Japan Day.






W thought it was all a little it smelly, but he managed to remove his hand from his nose long enough to make and eat a couple of sushi rolls which he really enjoyed.





We learned how to make two types of sushi (three if you count the rice on the outside variety). J and I loved the fried tofu pockets stuffed with shushi rice and a dab of sesame seeds. J also loved the Nori wrapped sushi and although I don't mind it, I really don't like the strong seaweed taste.





Fans play an important part in Japanese history and culture, one of our craft activities was to paint our own fans. Both men and women carry fans in Japan to cool themselves during the hot weather. Sometimes they were used as weapons and they play a part in Japanese theatre.




We also learned about various body systems, did a number of science experiments, lots of cooking, journal drawing and a book club. One week we did some Chinese crafts and discussed the Chinese Calendar and all of our various Chinese Zodiacs, the children loved that part! and they spent some time talking about their characteristics and personalities.

My boys had a couple of sessions with Cuisenaire rods - Maths!