FREE Printable Christmas Activity Sheet!

The kids in my English class got into the holiday spirit making these cute, Christmas trees. It's always fun incorporating crafts into our lesson because it gives them a chance to practice USING English (I'm all about learning by experience...that's why I came to Japan to study Japanese! :) ) Our focus was on following directions, using colors and shapes, and being creative.

So after folding the paper in half and cutting out our tree...

I asked them, "Find the color RED and draw some small circles. Now take out the color LIGHT BLUE and draw some squares." (Those who needed a little help could look at the board and follow my demo.) As we went through the activity, I tried to let them locate the colors and draw the shapes before I did. It was great practice and they loved making the project.

At the end I allowed them time to add their own designs and put on the final touch....

a shining star at the top! They did an amazing job and had no problem doing this activity all in English. So proud of my students...they're all such bright stars! :)

Now it's your turn. You can download the worksheet for free by clicking here. Save the picture and when you print it out be sure to select size B5 and "fit to page". Feel free to drop a line or show us some pics of your trees. :)

Have fun and happy holidays!

Day trip to Nanjo

Yesterday, I took a trip with a small group of friends to Nanjo City. We visited a few historical sites and then headed to the beach. Tucked away in this hidden path was....
Hyakuna beach! The white sands, coral rocks, and turquoise water make it such a peaceful place. Plus, it was so secluded we had most of it to ourselves. :)

After enjoying the view, we ate at a restaurant called Mozuku Soba. I've never tasted such fresh mozuku (Okinawan seaweed) in my life...probably because it came straight from the sea. What a treat!

On our way back, we stopped by a farmer's market for some fruits and veggies. I felt like one of the locals buying my groceries for the day.

At the market, my little friend made a few friends of her own. Aren't they adorable?

It was a wonderful day and I want to say a special thank you to the "A team" for the nice memory....Arigatou!

Eisa and the Blue Moon

Children were performing some Okinawan Eisa dances today. I've never tried to
play a taiko drum before but after seeing them, I hope to have a chance someday!

Such colorful, customes!

What a cutie!

He was actually very good!

As we were walking away, we caught a glimpse of November's full moon .

It was a nice way to end the day! :)

Children's Art Exhibit

One of the teachers mentioned that the children submitted their work in the annual children's art exhibition, so today I stopped by the gallery. Turns out, many of the other schools I teach at also entered their students' work in the competition and I was excited to see their art on display. The age range was from 2-5 years old, and their objective was to paint a fun memory from their summer vacation. From family outings to sports day, catching bugs, birthday parties, riding the school bus; these simple moments were the exciting adventures they enjoyed. It was awesome to see their impressions on paper!

Isn't this precious?

So many budding artists!

On the hunt for cicada.

I even ran into one of my kiddos who had his painting on display. Good job, buddy!

The vivid colors, detailed expressions, and spirit of play captured on canvas was truly impressive. Needless to say, I walked away inspired to create that same kind of magic! :)

The beach part 2

We decided to say goodbye to this beach and walk to another one about 20 minutes away.

You don't wanna leave yet?

The fisherman was enjoying his day...hope he caught something!

We stumbled upon a beautiful trail that led us to.....

this beach! Ah, it was a lovely day. :)

At the beach...part one!

Here we are at the beach! When I'm in the city, I tend to forget that I'm living on such a tropical island. I'm so glad we had perfect weather today!

White sand and clear, blue water.

She's hopping around with excitement, but so sweet to stop and pose for me. :)

Too cold to jump into but I wish I could at this moment!

My favorite photo

Part two is coming soon!

On the way to the beach

With our day off, we decided to head to the beach. It took an hour's drive and by then we were hungry! So we stopped by this cute, coffee shop.

"Where are we?"

"Well, wherever we are I'm so happy!"
Burger and fries on a day like this...can't beat it. :)

And off we go!