How should I teach my child Chinese?

Learning Chinese in Singapore can be challenging for children who grow up in families where English is the dominant language spoken at home. However, there are several ways children can still learn Chinese effectively.

1. Enroll in a School with a strong Chinese language program: Choose a preschool for your child with an organised and strong curriculum. These programs can provide structured learning and help children build a solid foundation in the language.

2. Spend more time with Chinese-speaking relatives or teachers: If your child has relatives (such as grandparents) who speak Mandarin predominantly, let your child engage with them independently.  Otherwise, preschool teachers can be a wonderful means for such linguistic influences.  In most childcare centres with organised curriculum, children have opportunities to immerse in the Chinese language with their Chinese language teachers for approximately half the time they spend in school.  

3. Practice with peers: Children can practice speaking Chinese with their peers who may also be learning the language. This can be done in school or through extracurricular activities such as Chinese language clubs or cultural events.

4. Watch Chinese media: Children can improve their listening skills by watching Chinese movies, TV shows, and cartoons. This can also help them become more familiar with Chinese culture.

5. Use language learning apps: There are many language learning apps available that can make learning Chinese more engaging and interactive. 

6. Immersion programs: Consider enrolling your child in a Chinese immersion program, where they will be surrounded by Chinese speakers and use the language in everyday situations. This can help them become more comfortable and confident in their ability to speak Chinese.

It's important to remember that learning a language takes time and effort, and it's not something that can be accomplished overnight. Encourage your child to practice regularly and make learning Chinese a fun and enjoyable experience.


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At Eshkol Valley Preschool, our content-based progressive curriculum caters to children of differing Chinese language abilities.  Our passionate teachers and immersive Mandarin programme have even our non-Chinese children becoming wonderful speakers of the language. 

Join us at our schools located in Punggol, Sengkang, Hougang, Yishun, Bukit Panjang and Pasir Panjang to see up close the enriching childhood your child can potentially have!