Kira has changed the most, I believe. After attending a Japanese yochien (kindergarten) for almost 2 years, she is now thoroughly comfortable in the school. She is speaking in Japanese in full sentences to her senseis and Japanese friends. She is mentoring new American students, and helping her teachers translate. Her confidence and comfort level with her Japanese has been astounding. Even her senseis and principal are impressed. Just seeing her today, at her end of the school year performance, there is such a difference. Last year, she was like many of the other American students, doing the arm movements and trying to sing the songs. This year, she fully participated in the entire play. I just hope we can find some way for her to continue with her Japanese when we move.