In the United States when you meet someone new or see someone who you have not seen for a while it is our custom to shake hands. Here in Japan it is the custom to bow slightly at the waist. It is not like bowing in prayer, it is a sign of honor and respect. Honor and respect are both very important ideals and values in all aspects of Japanese life. A form of art popular with Japanese children is origami.
Origami is a style of folding paper into the shapes of animals and objects.
Children from the local area made origami birds and dogs for us. Ms. Chun or your art teacher may be able to show you how to make an origami paper bird which can flap its wings. Every month each of you learns a poem to present to the class. Haiku is a Japanese form of poetry. A haiku is made up of verses five, seven and five syllables.