Back to School in America:  Autumn is here and that means it's back to school time for students all over America. September is when all students start a new school year. After a long summer holiday, it's time to get back into the swing of things and start learning new things again.

Just like in Japan the first few days of school can be a bit of an adjustment, but students quickly settle back into their routine. In America students meet their new teachers and classmates, and start learning about the subjects they'll be studying that year.

In early autumn, American life for children is all about getting back into the groove of school and enjoying the changing seasons. The weather is starting to cool down, and the leaves are changing color. Kids love to go for walks and play outside in the crisp autumn air.

Of course, no autumn is complete without Halloween! This spooky holiday is celebrated on October 31st, and kids love to dress up in costumes and go trick-or-treating. We hope GEA students are getting excited for a fun Halloween, too!! I know the teachers sure are! Later in autumn there are also lots of other Halloween-themed activities that families can enjoy, such as pumpkin carving, hayrides, and haunted houses.

But here are some other things that kids can expect in early autumn in America:

• Football season: Football is a popular sport in America, and autumn is the time of year for football games. Kids love to cheer on their favorite teams and watch the games with their families.
• Apple picking: Apple picking is a fun fall activity for families. Kids can go to an apple orchard and pick their own apples. Then, they can take the apples home and bake pies, make apple cider, or simply enjoy them as a snack.
• Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving is a holiday celebrated in America on the fourth Thursday in November. It's a time for families to come together and enjoy a feast. Kids love to help cook the Thanksgiving dinner and eat all the delicious food.

Early autumn is a fun and exciting time for kids in America. With the start of school, the changing seasons, and all the upcoming holidays, there's something for everyone to enjoy. It is such a great time of year. Personally, autumn and winter are my two favorite seasons so I am so excited.