I need a sensei, and fast
Everyone’s awake. Everyone’s had breakfast. My Japanese teens now know the words “bread”, “pancakes” and “bagels”.
I found the Usborne First Thousand Words book - a large picture for each theme (shopping, food, playground, etc) surrounded by smaller drawings of various items, with the word underneath each. I thought if they could point to things, it might help. I’m not sure they’ve understood that all they have to do is point, though; I think at least one of them thinks he has to learn all the words…
I did finally get across the meaning of “What do you want to do today?” They conferred for a minute, then answered, “Drink milk.” Ho-kay. They did that.
We got out an atlas and showed them where they are, and they showed us where they come from. Small town near Tokyo. Don’t ask me for more detail.
Freddy told them the Japanese words he’s learned from doing ju-jitsu. They appeared baffled as to why this child was reciting a list of words at them: gi, sensei, obi… I found photos of him in his gi, and they said “Ah, judo!” I agreed. It was easier that way 
They know the word “google”. They appeared excited when they saw my laptop - a Toshiba. Okay, they’ve travelled a long way; familiar is good.
I showed them photographs of where we’re going tomorrow. I also showed them photos of the castle, and asked if they’d like to go there today - much nodding and “oh yes” (hey, two new words!) They also looked at photos of the giant chess game and said “Harry Potter!” 
Seeking other activities, I showed them more photos from this blog. This afternoon, they want to go ten-pin bowling.
They know the word “Playstation”. So that’s what they’re doing now.
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Gosh, Deb. You’re not one for seeking the quiet life, are you? Sounds like quite an experience.
sounds challenging! ROFL at Harry Potter though!
I was just thinking that! What a challenge.
Funny, that they know google and harry potter, but not other words. Mind you, if I went to Japan I’d be the same. Toshiba… Sony.. er… not much else.
I can say in japanese [but not write it!] hello [for a telephone - hi moshi moshi or some such!!] I am from tokyo [tokyo kara des] and I am japanese [nihonjin des] obviously these last 2 have always been very useful!!! oh, and cheers - kanpai!
does this help you out? [rofl rofl]
Er, thanks, Helen, that’s…uh… thanks
Deb - we study Japanese. We’re rubbish but may be able to help. Whaddya wanna know??? Most important I think are:
Gommen- nasai = Sorry (Japanese people worse than English for saying this all the time!)
Arri ga to - thanks
Kudasai (Koo da sigh ) - please
Dai Jyo Bu - No problem.
Choto ma tay - Wait a minute
Immediate cultural rescue: get some Studio Ghibli DVDs and watch them with Japanese language and English subtitles. Fun and educational for both sides. Can try to copy mine & post to you if you want. Never tried before though…