Since November, the children of Beyondia International School Meguro have been deepening their learning about Spain, exploring its culture, language, and food.
This year’s Christmas celebration was made possible with the generous support of the Instituto Cervantes Tokyo, and it became a truly meaningful and memorable event.

On the day of the event, the children participated in a Spanish language trial lesson, where they learned Spanish words for numbers, colors, and more. They eagerly challenged themselves with unfamiliar pronunciation, and some children even remembered and took home the new words they had learned. It was a valuable and inspiring learning experience.

We were also delighted to welcome Ms. Sara Maria, who gave a presentation about Christmas traditions in Spain.
The children learned about traditional Spanish Christmas sweets such as Polvorón and Roscón de Reyes, as well as the custom of eating 12 grapes at midnight on New Year’s Eve (December 31)—one with each chime of the bell—to wish for good luck in the coming year.

They also discovered that on January 5, colorful parades are held across Spain, and children leave their shoes out the night before in anticipation of gifts. While children in Japan typically receive presents on December 25, in Spain gifts are given on January 6 by the Three Wise Men, not Santa Claus. Through these stories, the children were able to experience Spain’s unique and heartwarming culture.

Following the presentations, the children held their class performances in the hall.

1-Year-Old Class (Penguin)

Dance Performance: Jingle Bells (Spanish Version)
With adorable movements, the children swayed to the rhythm and danced with great effort. Although some looked a little nervous on their very first big stage, they bravely completed their performance from start to finish.

2-Year-Old Class (Dolphin)

Dance: Arre Borriquito & Song: Feliz Navidad
Wearing reindeer hats, the children danced freely and joyfully. Their lively Spanish singing of Feliz Navidad filled the hall and brought a bright, cheerful atmosphere to the audience.

3-Year-Old Class (Orca 1)

Operetta: Kiirodori (The Yellow Bird)
Based on a story by a Spanish author, this operetta tells the tale of a yellow bird who cannot fly but sets off on a journey by finding creative solutions—teaching the importance of finding a way rather than giving up.

The children fully embraced their roles, practicing together while encouraging one another. On stage, they performed with confident voices and expressive faces, bringing the story to life with confidence and energy.

4-Year-Old Class (Orca 2)

Presentation & Musical Ensemble
The children gave a presentation on Spanish instruments such as tambourines, castanets, and bells, and performed an ensemble of Campana Sobre Campana.

At first, matching their timing was challenging, but through repeated practice, their rhythm gradually came together. By the end, they were joyfully playing while making eye contact with their friends. They concluded by singing Noche de Paz in Spanish, creating a warm and united atmosphere.

5-Year-Old Class (Orca 3)

Play: Christmas Journey
This play was chosen to reflect Spain’s tradition of receiving gifts from the Three Wise Men rather than Santa Claus.

Beginning with the visit of Angel Gabriel, the story follows the journey of Mary and Joseph and their eventual reunion. The children thoughtfully expressed their characters’ emotions through voice, facial expressions, and movement. Their determination to perform until the very end reflected significant growth and confidence unique to five-year-olds.

🍽️ Christmas Lunch Party

After the performances, the 3–5-year-old classes enjoyed a Christmas Lunch Party at the Spanish restaurant Glass Dance in Shinagawa.
By tasting authentic Spanish dishes such as paella and Spanish omelette, the children were able to further connect with Spanish culture through food.

This Christmas celebration provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on what the children have learned so far while discovering new perspectives and knowledge.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the parents and supporters who have continuously supported us throughout the year.
As we look ahead to the new year, we will continue to cherish each day of learning while warmly supporting the children’s growth.