Going to School in Kenya

Yesterday I met a class of first-graders in Kenya, and it made me think of my friends at Whiting Lane! I wanted to tell you a little bit about what it's like to go to school in Kenya. The school system is very much like ours, only with different names. Instead of Kindergarten, Kenyan's say Pre-Unit. Then, grades 1-8 are called standards 1-8. The different levels of high school are referred to as Form 1, Form 2, Form 3, and Form 4.

All children in Kenyan schools wear uniforms, though they are different for the different schools. There is no food in the public schools so most children go home for lunch, though I have met some whose families do not have enough money for lunch, so they stay at the school during lunch hour.

Children LOVE soccer in Kenya, and also basketball and running. They learn math, science, social studies, English and Kiswahili which is one of the main languages here.

How in Kenyan school similar to American school? How is it different?

What do Kenyan moms and dads do?

Some of you wanted to know what sorts of things Kenyan moms and dads did for work and I think I have found some answers for you. I have learned that some parents are doctors. I went to a hospital the other day and there were lots of different doctors and nurses there. Another time, while I was driving down the road we saw some police officers by the side of the road to check to make sure our car was safe. I think some Kenyan parents are police officers as well. I have also met grown-ups in Kenya who are teachers, shopkeepers, taxi-drivers (some are bicycle or motorbike taxis!) and almost everyone has some part of their home where they farm different crops to sell.

Does anyone have a parent who owns a shop, is a police officer, or farmer? I bet all of us know a nurse or teacher! Do you think Kenyan moms and dads sound a lot like moms and dads from West Hartford?

The Journey Begins!

Hi Everyone! Last night after I finished all my packing, I decided to make a farewell video to all you guys from my house in West Hartford. Check it out here.

This morning I made my first stop in Cincinnati, Ohio. Who has been to Ohio? Does anyone have friends or family there? It's pretty far to drive but not so bad to fly. I am staying with my friend Randie who is helping me get ready to go to Kenya! Only 3 more days till I fly to Africa. I can't wait!