Photoessay #1017 - Ai Ai

That;s pronounced 'aye aye'

The name of the center or 'network' or 'npo' which is truly Nobuko's lifework.

Note: we did a huge reorganization of the baggage today so I have no idea where my cable is. May be on Japan Railways on the way to Tokyo.

We spent most of the day touring around "II", a center for autistic preschoolers, school age children and adults. They have a beautiful building built on Nobuko's land in Yamagata.

Nobuko started as a volunteer here right after she graduated from college and now is President of the organization which has a staff of 30. We started off the day invited to a lunch of Udon noodles with the II staff. In mid-morning, we went to the building to the section for school age after school care and found that WE would be making the noodles. The staff had everything all set up for Nobuko, Dennis and me with aprons and hair coverings and we all made noodles with great merriment (that will be another post). Followed with by another huge Japanese meal.

Later we went downstairs where the autistic adults have their program. Many quite affected. Almost 1 to 1 for staffing. A great emphasis on doing work, being paid for your work, and being able to spend your own money as YOU choose. Not your teachers or your parents. They use the 100 Yen Store (like a dollar store) a lot. Many interesting ideas for work. One specialty involved assembling sleeves for chopsticks, printing a design on the sleeve and inseting chopsticks. Do 100 sleeves and you get 100 yen at the end of theday. Also some vinegar made from persimmons.

We then went across town to a municipal building where "II" has been renting space for its preschool program. As with the other programs, almost all boys. The mothers were present, sitting on cushions and allowed to chat. The children and staff were busy and engaged. Little brothers are allowed to come. Actually, these boys seem to be playing together as well as any preschool I've been involved with.

As always, we are greeted by the staff as VIPs. Friend of President. And, almost every interaction is accompanied by a cup of green tea.

Nobuko's model is feline regarding autistism. The idea is to turn them from a 'wild cat to a housecat'. Not memorizing or rote behavior. But teaching some basic skills around depending on your mother. Each program has significant structure.

We made a donation.

Pictures show the "II" building and the head of the adult program proudly showing off their new cabinet which they just purchased.