HOLISTIC EDUCATION
A Pinocchio education is holistic. Pinocchio students grow into well-rounded individuals, thriving both inside and outside the classroom.
Our comprehensive program reflects the Pinocchio values of integrity, confidence, modesty, and friendship, guiding children to develop essential life skills and character traits, including:
- Contributing positively to the community
- Showing kindness and empathy toward others
- Working together to solve problems
- Thinking creatively and exploring new ideas
- Making thoughtful and fair decisions
- Facing challenges with courage and resilience
At Pinocchio Kindergarten, we nurture not only academic growth but also the emotional and social development needed to succeed in life.
Press the images below to view more details about our education.
From Farm to Table
At Pinocchio Kindergarten, children engage in agricultural activities at our farm in Fukaya City. They participate in the cultivation and harvesting of various vegetables, gaining firsthand experience in the processes of rice planting, harvesting, threshing, and polishing. Additionally, students take part in excursions for orange and strawberry picking, fostering an appreciation for the richness of nature and the origins of their food.
Nurturing Nature’s Cycle
Students observe and engage in the life cycle of aquatic and terrestrial creatures, including the hatching, feeding, and release of salmon in the Tone River. Furthermore, they participate in the care of silkworms and native butterfly species. Through these hands-on experiences, children develop an understanding of biodiversity and the interdependence of living organisms.
Birds in Our Hands
Pinocchio Kindergarten has been entrusted with the rehabilitation of injured birds from Saitama Prefecture. Students learn the principles of animal care, responsibility, and empathy by tending to various bird species such as pheasants, quails, and pigeons. By actively participating in the incubation, nurturing, and eventual release of these birds into their natural habitats, children gain insight into ecological conservation and the cycles of life in nature.
Kids’ Summer Trip
The annual summer trip to Nagano is one of the most anticipated events at Pinocchio Kindergarten. During this adventure, children stay for two nights without their parents, fostering independence and social responsibility. Through this experience, students learn to take care of themselves and support their peers, helping them develop confidence and self-reliance while exploring nature.
A Playground Like No Other
Pinocchio Kindergarten boasts one of the largest playgrounds in Saitama, providing children with ample space to run, play, and engage in physical activities. This expansive outdoor area encourages free play, promoting physical development, social interaction, and overall well-being.
Monthly Picture Book “SHIZEN”
The SHIZEN picture book series introduces children to scientific concepts related to nature, animals, and the environment. These books encourage curiosity and critical thinking by prompting students to explore fundamental questions such as “How?” and “Why?” about the world around them. Through guided discussions, teachers help children develop a deeper appreciation for the wonders of life and the interconnectedness of natural phenomena.
Cooking Classes
On designated cooking days, children prepare meals using vegetables harvested from the Pinocchio farm. Through hands-on experience in planting, harvesting, cooking, and eating, students gain a deeper appreciation for food and an understanding of sustainable agricultural practices. This activity fosters independence, responsibility, and an awareness of healthy eating habits.
Interaction with Different Age Groups
Students engage in cross-age interactions through various community-based activities. They visit local primary schools to play and learn with older children, collaborate with agricultural high school students in rice farming activities, and participate in intergenerational programs at a nursing home in Fukaya City. These experiences enhance social development, communication skills, and a sense of community engagement.
Fröbel Gifts
Friedrich Fröbel, a German educator, pioneered the concept of “Kindergarten,” meaning Children’s Garden, and remains one of the most influential educational reformers of the 19th century. Fröbel’s Gifts are a series of carefully designed educational tools that encourage children to explore self-expression, creativity, and cognitive development through play. At Pinocchio Kindergarten, we provide Fröbel Gifts No. 1–10, enabling students to develop their imagination, problem-solving abilities, and recognition skills through guided and self-directed learning activities.
English Class
At Pinocchio Kindergarten, our English program opens the door to global communication. We use our own principal and partner with SCAE International to bringing in professional, multilingual teachers who specialize in early childhood education. These experienced instructors make English fun and engaging through games, songs, and hands-on activities build language naturally. Classes are held twice a week and are carefully designed to suit young learners, helping them absorb the sounds and rhythm of English in a playful environment. Our goal is not just to teach words, but to inspire a love of language and the confidence to use it.
Gymnastics
Every week, our children enjoy a dynamic gymnastics class led by world class Tatsuki Nakashima. This program focuses on developing physical strength, balance, coordination, and self-discipline—all while having fun. The sessions are tailored to each age group and promote body awareness through structured exercises and playful movement. Whether it’s tumbling on soft mats, balancing, or learning to stretch properly, children gain essential motor skills that support healthy physical development.