Steve Ward, father of Michael Ward, talks about his son’s enthusiasm for studying Japanese


The change in our son, Michael, can be summarized in three words: enthusiasm, initiative, and focus. For the first time he was enthusiastic about what was happening at school because he had found something he truly enjoyed. He took the initiative to hand us his flash cards and asked that we help him study. He did this with no other school subject. And he had a focus to his life, both short-term and long-term. He enthusiastically pursued immediate study goals and he developed the long-term focus of living and working in Japan. We were pleased to see Michael engaged in serious effort and diligent preparation.

His circle of friends changed for the better. Studying Japanese provided a common link to a group of good kids. The very nature of language study requires an organized, inquiring mind that is open to the world. We were pleased to see these characteristics reflected in Michael’s classmates and friends.

Michael took us along with him on his journey studying Japanese. We did new things, met new people, and ultimately visited new lands (Japan). Japanese language competitions, both locally and nationally in Washington, DC, were fun and thrilling for us. We kept exchange students in our home 3 or 4 times during Michael’s high school study. That was an eye-opening experience that we really enjoyed. Most recently, we visited Japan and enjoyed a wide-ranging tour with Michael as tour guide. In many ways that was the payoff of all of Michael’s hard work and accomplishments. Of course, the ultimate positive experience was simply watching our son grow, progress, and achieve his goals.

First, strongly encourage the study of a second language. Proficiency in a second language provides hugely expanded opportunities, both professional and personal. And let your child choose the language. I regret having encouraged Michael to study Spanish instead of his choice, Japanese. The effort necessary to acquire a proficiency in a second language requires interest and enthusiasm from within; therefore let the child choose the language.

Second, as with any field your child studies, participate as much as possible, and with foreign language study, this mean hosting exchange students if at all possible. Hosting exchange students not only provides an excellent learning experience for both the exchange student and the host family, it also is a great way to show interest and acceptance of your child’s chosen area of study. Suddenly your child’s study effort becomes quite literally a family affair, which will sustain and encourage your child to continue the effort.

(February 2010)