Chinese Language Classes
Did you know that China is the world’s fastest growing economy or that Chinese is the most widely spoken language in the world?
This rapidly growing country was also the birthplace of more than one third of the children adopted through our international programs in 2006.
If you’ve adopted from China and are looking for ways to keep your child in touch with her heritage, or if you are planning to adopt from China and are wondering how you will communicate with your child during her transition, AAI has the answer.
AAI recommends an electronic course plus several new Chinese classes offered off-site in the West Michigan area.
Please see below for class options in your area.
Electronic Course
Chinese for Parents
Chinese for Parents is an excellent course that teaches the Chinese language to adoptive parents to:
- Better Communicate with their newly adopted child by addressing their needs in the language they understand
- Express gratitude to social welfare workers in China
- Sing Chinese lullabies to your child
- Even take a taxi !
For more information on this fun and easy language program, please go to http://www.chineseforparents.com/
Western Michigan
Ren-Ai Chinese Language and Culture School/Zeeland Recreation
Chinese Language and Culture for Beginners
This class will introduce Chinese language to all ages. Students will learn Mandarin pronunciation, basic Chinese vocabulary and basic Chinese character strokes to build a strong language foundation. Students will be divided into different groups based on age and interest to learn the language. Students will also explore Chinese culture by learning poems, playing games, singing songs, and practicing writing. The textbook can be purchased at the first class session for $10. Although the textbook is not required, it is recommended.
Chinese Painting and Calligraphy for Beginners
This class will introduce the basics of Chinese painting and calligraphy for beginners ages five and up interested in learning about Chinese brushwork. Students will learn how to handle Chinese brushes with ink and color and how to execute brush strokes. Individuals will work at their own pace. Come and explore this fascinating Chinese tradition. There are no Chinese language requirements for this class.
To learn more about either class: Registration forms can be obtained by calling Sunli Whitcomb, owner of Ren-Ai Chinese Language and Culture School, at 616.748.0673 or by e-mailing her at sunli@geosun.us. Registration forms are also available through Zeeland Recreation.
YMCA of Belmont
Chinese Language and Culture for Beginners
With a separate session for children and adults, this class is designed to accommodate students of all ages. But no matter how old you are, in just twelve weeks, you will learn how to construct basic Chinese sentences, become familiar with Chinese phonetics, and memorize phrases that are useful in Chinese daily life. The children’s classes will be accentuated with stories and games taught in Chinese, while parent and adult students will have an opportunity to learn about intercultural differences between the United States and China. Come join us for this cultural experience, and get to know China, the upcoming giant in the 21st century!
Parent/Child Class
Looking for a way to experience the Chinese culture with your child? Then join us for a shortened version of the language and culture course designed for children ages four to seven to take along with their parents. This class will teach you basic Chinese with the help of storytelling and the Chinese alphabet!
Get to Know China Seminar
Do you want to learn more about China, but can’t find the time to commit to attending a weekly class? Then come to this seminar and learn interesting and important facts about China in just one morning! You’ll be introduced to helpful phrases, learn cultural lessons, and more. This seminar is especially helpful for those thinking about traveling to or adopting from China.
For more information or to register for a class or seminar, please call Molly Schmid at 616.855.1447.
Bridge to China Language and Culture School
Bridge to China offers age-appropriate Mandarin language classes for students of all aptitude levels. The faculty is comprised of native Mandarin speakers who are experienced in teaching in schools and universities in the U.S. and China. A variety of classes are available for interested students to choose from. Children may be taught Mandarin and simplified Chinese characters through singing, storytelling, games, and many other interactive and cultural activities while adults may choose to take traditional Chinese language or Chinese cooking classes.
Age:
Students ages three and up are welcome.
Semester:
Semesters are 14 weeks in length. There are two semesters per year.
Classes are either an hour or an hour and a half in length.
Location:
Brookview School
501 Zollar
Benton Harbor, MI
Registration:
Please visit http://www.bridgetochina.org to complete the registration form. Registration is due 10 days prior to the first day of school along with payment for the semester.
