ET's experienced translator can help you register your child to Japanese schools, yochien, and nurseries!
We are a translation company in Japan, here to support families through important milestones, including school enrollment.
Navigating the enrollment process for Japanese schools, kindergartens, or daycare can be overwhelming, especially with language barriers. From understanding complicated forms to grasping the expectations during interviews or parent-teacher meetings, it’s easy to feel lost. That’s where ET’s interpretation services come in! Our monthly subscription ensures you have real-time, professional language support during every step of your child’s educational journey—from initial inquiries to enrollment. With our team by your side, you’ll not only avoid potential misunderstandings but also ensure a smooth start for your child’s experience in Japan’s unique education system.
We are able to assist you remotely wherever you are traveling in Japan, and are also located in Nagasaki Prefecture, Yamaguchi Prefecture, and Kanagawa Prefecture for face-to-face assistance. We have been serving for English speaking people living in Japan for 9 years, and have 100,000+ assistance experiences all over Japan! See more reviews from here Happy Clients
I have peace of mind knowing if I need something translated.
Thankful for this service. I have peace of mind knowing if I need something translated back and forth to my children’s school or if I have a question about activities or reservations in town I know I can rely on them.
It has been very helpful for my family and I.
The ability to get assistance with making reservations made it more enjoyable to travel and explore the local area of Japan. Also being very understanding and willing to help communicate with between my child’s school and myself regarding a serious injury. I am very appreciative of this translation opportunity service, it has been very helpful for my family and I.
They helped us break the language barrier
We want to thank Saori for working with our family for the past two years! Her translating services are exceptional and her professionalism is unmatched. Our family had the pleasure of working with Saori as our personal translator for our son’s soccer team. As a foreigner, we came across many language challenges of having our son play on a local Japanese soccer team. Saori first assisted us with getting onto the team but then acted on our behalf for all communication needs including being part of messaging groups. Saori helped us break the language barrier and we had a very successful time with the team. Her services provided us with a voice on the team which allowed us to fully participate as a member despite the language barrier! She went beyond simply translating soccer schedules, maps, and documents and was always there for us whenever something unexpected came up! We felt she catered her services to what we were looking for.
Saori met and exceeded all our expectations and if we get the pleasure of coming back to Japan, we will certainly work with her again!
We are the most experienced translators familiar with U.S. military life!!
We are a translation company providing Japanese-English interpretation. ET team consists of over 10 staff members spread across more than 5 regions in Japan and in Australia. Additionally, our team is familiar with military life and base-related matters for U.S. military.
Our services for your daily life in Japan:
- Unlimited 5 mins Quick Assistance: call or email to local business
- Simple Document Translation:for quick translations of letters, emails from your child's school, and more!
- Using us as POC: Point of contact at your children's school. (*Deluxe or Premium members only )
- Discounts on Document Translation and On-site Translation Service: $5~$10 off (*Deluxe or Premium members only )
Are you interested in sending your children to Japanese schools?
If you start living in Japan, you might consider sending your children to local schools.
These are what you can expect:
- High Academic Standards: Known for rigorous academic programs and high student performance. The curriculum is challenging and systematic, focusing heavily on core subjects such as Japanese, math, science, and social studies. Regular assessments contribute to the strong academic environment.
- Strong Discipline and Respect: Emphasis on respect for teachers and peers, creating a well-mannered learning environment. Students are responsible for cleaning their classrooms and hallways at the end of each school day. Cleaning is often done as a group activity, promoting teamwork and cooperation among students. This practice helps maintain a clean environment and instills a sense of responsibility for their surroundings.
- Holistic Development: Focus on developing a range of skills including teamwork, creativity, and personal responsibility. Extracurricular activities, physical education, and participation in cultural events contribute to the well-rounded development of students.
What to prepare for Japanese school
While these aspects contribute to a positive reputation, there are also important things to prepare for and be aware of:
Multiple sets of uniforms and specific school supplies
Japanese schools often have specific uniforms for students. Be prepared for a range of uniform types depending on the school, including blazers, skirts, and school shoes. Most yochien (kindergartens) have several types of school uniforms, such as one for ceremonies, one for gymnastics, one for school lunch. Additionally, elementary school students will need a "randoseru" (a sturdy, structured backpack), which sometimes takes up to six months to acquire before the new school year starts. Some schools even have requirements for specific types of shoes, which can only be found at a particular store in town.
Parents involvement in school life
Expect to be actively involved in your child’s education. Schools often hold Parent-Teacher-Student meeting ("sansha mendan" in Japanese), where you’ll discuss your child’s progress with their teachers. Participation in PTA (Parent-Teacher Association) meetings is also common.
School events and activities on weekends
Japanese schools have various events throughout the year, including sports days, cultural festivals, and field trips. Many of these events take place on weekends, and parental participation is encouraged and sometimes required. For instance, parents are encouraged to participate in a parent team activity on sports day, such as parent-child relay, tug-of-war, and ball toss.
Understanding School Culture
Japanese schools emphasize discipline, respect, and group harmony. Be prepared for a structured environment where students are expected to follow strict rules and participate in communal activities.
Preparing Bento Everyday
Many private schools and kindergartens expect students to bring homemade lunches, known as "bento." Even public schools expect students to bring "bento" for school events like sports days and field trips. Preparing a balanced and appealing bento can be an important part of your child's school experience.
Language and Communication
While many schools are supportive, communication can sometimes be a challenge due to language barriers. Navigating a new school system can be challenging, but with the right support, you and your child can thrive in this new environment.
Most teachers only speak Japanese, and it is too difficult for children to translate everything during parent-teacher-student meetings. You may be required to bring a translator for these meetings.
Are you worried about the language barrier and cultural differences?
That’s where our translation and interpretation services come in: we handle the language barriers for you, our translation services can help bridge this gap, ensuring that you’re always informed and involved in your child's school life. Let us help make the transition as smooth as possible!
What We Offer
Tailored to Your Needs
9-5 Assistance
Phone call assistance
Online Booking and Easy Communication on Messenger/ DM
Online / On-site Translation Assistance
Here’s how ET can help you overcome language barriers in school life:
- Providing local insider information on where to buy school supplies like indoor shoes and drawstring bags.
- Interpreting during parent-teacher-student meetings.
- Translating school letters.
- Important information about school events and necessary items often arrives only in letters.
Learn more about ET's monthly subscription plans from here: Monthly Subscription Service
How to Use Our Service
- Inquiry: Reach out to us through our website to discuss your needs.
- Customized Planning: Let us know your preferences, and we'll tailor a unique itinerary for you.
- Enjoy Your Trip: Experience Japan with confidence, knowing that we're here to assist you every step of the way.
We have been serving for English speaking customers for 8 years, and have 100,000+ assistance experiences all over Japan!