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 greater Boston 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, Pinar and Banu Morova of Winchester hosted 16-year-old Haruka Wada. Their daughter Denise, 11, also participated in the program.
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“Our family had a great experience,” said Banu. “Our daughter loved this unique friendship and cultural exchange, which really broadened her horizons. She had the opportunity to learn few Japanese words and observe a unique culture. At the end of two weeks, she really did not want this program end.”
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.
