SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL RECOMMENDATIONS
We understand you want to provide your child with the best opportunities to succeed in an increasingly globalized world. With over 1 billion speakers, Mandarin is one of the most widely spoken languages, making it a valuable language for children to learn. However, the tonal system and characters can seem daunting at first. Not to worry! With the right resources and techniques, learning Mandarin can be an enjoyable and rewarding journey for your child.
Here are some resources to supplement your child’s learning and help them grasp Mandarin and continue to learn in a fun and engaging way.
DVDs Offer Engaging Visual Learning
DVDs remain a great way to pick up pronunciation and vocabulary through visual and auditory learning. Excellent options include:
Little Pim's immersive method uses repetition in real-world situations to engage young learners.
Better Chinese provides comprehensive lessons focusing on vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure. Their website has additional resources.
The Secret of the Magic Gourd, a Disney movie with Mandarin, Cantonese, and English language options, uses storytelling to teach. Where to watch.
Interactive Apps Reinforce Skills
Educational apps deliver interactive, hands-on learning. Recommended iPad apps include:
World Tracer Learn Chinese helps master stroke order for writing characters correctly.
Study Pinyin focuses on the phonetic transcription system for pronunciation.
My First Chinese uses touch screens to engage young learners.
KTdict+C-E enables vocabulary building with flashcard reinforcement.
Donut Chinese School's themed apps provide fun learning.
Immersive Cartoons Make Learning Engaging
Cartoons like Ni Hao Kai combine entertainment and education. The memorable characters and stories help make language learning stick.
Innovative Techniques to Try
Supplement traditional resources with these fresh techniques:
Language exchanges with native speakers
Surrounding yourself with Mandarin TV, music, books
Using flashcards to memorize new vocabulary
Online tutors for personalized feedback
Structured programs like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone
Learning a second language takes commitment and consistency. But with the right blend of resources, Mandarin can be an enriching and enjoyable journey for your child. Remember—have fun, be patient, and celebrate progress! Your support will give your child the gift of a global language.