Tommy's Kindergarten Graduation

Here are some pictures of Tommy's graduation from Kindergarten. It was a very emotional event as many of the kids in his class had been together for 2-3 years. In Japan, the teacher usually moves through the preschool/kindergarten with the kids, so they build a strong bond over 2-3 years. Also, the moms become pretty good friends as well, so it was difficult for them.

From April Tommy will go to the same grade school as Michael. They can walk to school together in the morning. However, we suspect they may do more fighting than walking. Of the 26 kids in Tommy's class, most will go to the same grade school as Tommy. However, several of his best buddies will be moving or going to other schools.

The graduation ceremony was pretty formal with speeches from the principal and community supporters. The kids were called onto the stage one at a time. As with any type of Japanese ceremony, there was a lot of bowing at the appropriate times. The kids practised this well in advance.