Community Corner
Japanese summer exchange program looking for host families
The Explore Japan Summer Exchange and Enrichment Program, open to Japanese and American students, is not only a unique and rewarding experience for boys and girls – but it is free for host families. The Milton-based program, now in its 21st year, enables boys and girls from Japan to visit families in the south suburban area for two-and-a-half weeks.
Explore Japan, which runs from July 27 to Aug. 13, is seeking host families. It is held at Milton High School (for girls) and Pierce Middle School in Milton (for boys), operating 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Host parents do not need to be available during Explore Japan’s operating hours.
Exchange students range in age from 8-16. It is not necessary for host families to have children the same age as the exchange student.
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Activities include Japanese language workshops, arts and crafts, cooking, martial arts, calligraphy and a variety of interesting cultural exercises. In the afternoon, there will be field trips to the Museum of Fine Arts, Fenway Park Behind the Scenes Tour, Boston Harbor Cruise, bowling, Harvard Square and more.
Last summer, the Elaine and Shawn Whigham of Milton hosted 16-year-old exchange student Mizuki Wakahara. Their children – Zimri, Isaiah and Maya – also participated in the program.
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“It was a great experience for the children, a real cultural experience,” Elaine said.” It opened their minds to what goes on in other parts of the world. We learned that we do have a distinct culture and we like to share it with the rest of the world.
“There were two other Japanese students in Milton and the three of them got together quite a bit. Our kids really enjoyed Mizuki’s company and they’re sad that she’s leaving. They said it’s not going to be the same without her.”
There is no charge to host families and their children, or for activities during the two weeks. Openings are still available for hosts who would like to participate this summer (see www.americanlearning.com for an application).
For more information, call 781-828-2800 or visit www.americanlearning.com.
