Chinese school 2012-2013

Chinese school began on September 8 this year.  Since Haley is not yet 4 years old, I originally enrolled her into the same preschool class she was in last school year.  The teacher and materials are the same, but I thought Haley can practice listening and speaking Mandarin during class time.  On the first day, I realize more than 3/4 of the students are from families who have no Chinese background.  Teacher has to speak mainly English to teach simple words and phrase that Haley has already known.  I spoke to the teacher and she suggested Haley to try the Kindergarten Pin Yin class (normally for children from age 5 and up) instead.  The teacher spoke to the principal so she gave a special exception to let Haley enroll the class.  The kindergarten class lasts 2 hours with a 10-minute break.  My friends and I reviewed the textbook and sat in during class time, we think most of the students are very lost when teacher talks about the 4 basic tones.  Haley is the youngest and I will just let her learn as much as she can without pushing too hard.  It's better for her to continue the habit of going to Chinese school.  Even if we decide to repeat the same class next year, she is just at the right age for the class.

Haley's best friend, Claire is in the same class with her.  Stella and I decided to get together once a week to review the lesson from Chinese school, teach them Mandarin and follow with playtime.  Thanks to Stella so Haley can learn the proper Mandarin pronunciation.  I will also learn the Pin Yin so I can practice with Haley.  It is only a 20-minute session, but Stella told me the girls are very happy while learning.  As for me, I take the two little ones, Ashley and Chester outside in the backyard to minimize any distraction.  I lead them to sing songs and play little games.  It works out perfectly.

I wish Haley and Claire will keep their interest in learning Chinese when they have a friend to learn together.