Q: What preschool programs are available
A: 3, 4 and 5-day programs are available. Extended care is available before school from 8:30, and after school until 5:00. We consider children for one or two days per week, case by case.
Q: What age group can enroll in the preschool?
A: Basically from as soon as children turn three years old. We also enroll children as young as two and a half, case by case.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: There is no fixed deadline. Students may enroll any time during the year. However, space is limited so please apply early to guarantee your child a place. For April enrollment, we recommend applying by November 1.
Q: Are government subsidies such as “mushoka” (free child care) available.
A: Yes, please contact us for details.
Q: When does the school-year begin and end?
A: Children may join as soon as they are ready (see above), although most join in April. We have graduation in March for children who will enter first grade from April and in June for children who will enter first grade in the fall.
Q: What is offered for children who attend other preschools?
A: Children who attend other preschools are welcome to attend our weekday Kinder English program and our summer and spring programs. Some children split time between New Hope and another preschool.
Q: Can I enroll my child for just a short time?
A: Yes, we accept children short-term when we have capacity.
Q: What is the relationship between parents and the preschool?
A: We partner closely with parents. Through letters, conferences with teachers, parents' classes, classroom participation, outings, events, and informal talks, we encourage parents to be involved in every aspect of their children’s education, as much as they like.
Q: What kind of events does New Hope Preschool have?
A: We have picnic/field days, family parties, and outings (such as to the zoo, fire station, and local shops). We also have several guest “teachers” every year. In past years we have had a doctor, a sushi chef, construction workers, and musicians. We also offer programs for our preschool students and other children during spring and summer holidays.
Q: What are the preschool hours?
A: School hours are from 10:00AM to 2:30PM, Monday through Friday. (Drop-off begins at 9:30.) Students may come as early as 8:30AM and stay as late as 5:00PM for an additional fee.
Q: What about children who can’t understand or express themselves in English?
A: Because children at the preschool will be exposed to several hours of English every day, we expect their language skills to improve rapidly. Also, there are always bilingual staff in the preschool who can help if something important must be communicated in Japanese.
Q: What happens if a child is ill at school?
A: If a child appears ill or has a fever, we will call a parent to come and pick the child up. In urgent cases, we will contact parents, then take the child to a clinic, or call an ambulance if necessary. If there is other guidance from the government, we will follow it.
Q: What about injuries?
A: We maintain very high safety standards, but children do occasionally get hurt. We will treat minor scrapes and bruises and inform the parent at pick-up time. If there is a more serious injury, we will contact a parent and take the child to a clinic, or call an ambulance if necessary.
Q: Do children wear uniforms at the preschool?
A: No, they don’t. Children should wear comfortable, season-appropriate clothes that can get dirty.
Q: What about lunch?
A: Children bring their own lunches and drinks to school. Because of allergy issues, children are not permitted to share or trade food. We encourage children to finish their lunches unless parents have requested otherwise.
Q: What about children who are not toilet-trained?
A: We work with families on toilet training as needed.
Q: My question isn’t answered here. What should I do?
A: We are happy to answer any question you might have. You can reach us is by telephone at 03-5383-0421 or by e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
