Professional multilingual tutor for all ages and levels

Minako M.

I am a native Japanese speaker with over 30 years of experience teaching Japanese. In addition to my work as a Japanese language educator, I hold national certification as a Japanese Sign Language (JSL) interpreter and certification as an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter for education. Professionally, I work as an interpreter while also teaching both JSL and ASL.
I hold a Doctorate in Education with a specialization in special education and bilingual education. Beyond language instruction, I provide guidance for children and adults requiring various forms of special education and offer consulting support to their families.
After completing a program in teaching Japanese as a Second Language, I have taught in both Japan and the United States, working with students ranging from children to adults. My experience includes one-on-one sessions, group classes, workshops, schools, and corporate settings, both in-person and online. Each lesson is carefully tailored to the student’s goals, interests, and level.

My teaching covers a wide range of approaches, including JLPT preparation, school curriculum reinforcement, conversation practice, kanji mastery, business Japanese, as well as learning Japanese through J-pop and anime. I use textbooks such as Genki, Marugoto, Adventure, Busy People. For specialized topics, I sometimes create customized materials based on resources provided by the student. For elementary students, I incorporate games and stories into lessons to make learning engaging and enjoyable. My lessons are designed to be practical, engaging, and enjoyable. I am constantly exploring ways to connect learning materials with students’ interests and strengths to enhance their Japanese proficiency.
I hope to help as many people as possible broaden their horizons through language, discover their potential, embrace new challenges, and enjoy many meaningful experiences.
I would be delighted to be your guide and supporter on this journey.