Since January, the children at Beyondia International School Meguro have been learning about China. Through this country study, they explored many aspects of Chinese culture, including food, language, and traditional clothing.

We are also fortunate to have teachers from China at our school, which allowed the children to learn many Chinese words and expressions. Over the past two months, we began to see the children greeting their teachers and friends in Chinese, showing their growing confidence and curiosity about the language.

On February 28, we celebrated our learning with a special Chinese New Year Day event at school.

Inquiry Time: Discovering Dumplings

During Inquiry Time, the children explored the differences between dumplings from China and Japan through observation and discussion.

When the children compared Japanese gyoza and Chinese dumplings side by side, they quickly noticed the difference:

“Japanese dumplings are brown!”
“Chinese dumplings are white!”

When we asked, “Why do you think they are white?” one child shared an idea:
“Because they aren’t fried!”

Through this discussion, the children discovered that even though they are both dumplings, the cooking methods and ways of eating them are different in Japan and China.

They also learned that Chinese dumplings can contain many different fillings, such as pork, beef, seafood, or chicken, and that the aroma and flavor are different from Japanese gyoza.

Creating Our Own Chinese Dumplings

Next, the children learned how to fold Chinese dumplings using paper clay. They were very curious and excited to try it themselves, and many of them were able to wrap the dumplings beautifully without the teacher’s help.

We encourage families to try making dumplings together at home as well!

Exploring Chinese Calligraphy

The children also experienced Chinese Calligraphy, a traditional art form from China. Looking at examples, they practiced writing using brushes.

It was wonderful to see the children concentrating as they carefully used the brush. They worked very hard and created beautiful calligraphy pieces inspired by Chinese culture.

Performance Time

To conclude the event, each class shared a short performance, including Chinese songs and dances.

Penguin Class (1~2 year old class)

Dolphin Class (2~3 year old class)

Orca 1 Class (K1 Class)

Orca 2 Class (K2 Class)

Orca 3 Class (K3 Class)

The day provided a meaningful opportunity for the children to celebrate their learning and deepen their understanding of Chinese culture.

At Beyondia International School Meguro, we value opportunities for children to explore the world through culture, language, and shared experiences. Through activities like China Day, the children continue to expand their curiosity and appreciation for the diverse cultures that make up our global community.