Exchange Activity with Local Children by Japanese Language Program Level 3 Students (Wednesday, July 1)

On July 1, 2026, seven exchange students enrolled in Level 3 of the Japanese Language Training Course visited an after-school childcare center near the Mito Campus. There, they introduced children's games from their home countries and took part in an exchange activity by playing together with the children. This activity was conducted as part of the course curriculum and aimed to help students develop practical Japanese-language skills while strengthening ties with the local community.

A total of 18 children from the after-school program participated in the event. Since Level 4 students had visited the center in May and June this semester, the children appeared to be looking forward to playing with the international students again.

The international students explained the rules of the games and gave demonstrations that they had practiced beforehand. During the activities, they actively engaged with the children and worked to build communication. As the event progressed, the children's energy and enthusiasm helped ease the students' nervousness. The students gradually became more relaxed and were seen smiling and interacting naturally with the children.

Although the university and the children had had few opportunities to interact despite being located so close to one another, this activity has created a valuable opportunity for mutual exchange and is fostering new connections within the local community.