In today’s globalized world, learning Chinese is not only an enhancement of language skills but also an important bridge for cultural understanding and international communication. However, people from different cultural backgrounds may have difficulties understanding and using certain Chinese vocabularies, idioms and sentences due to cultural differences. Kids and teens are no exceptions.
But is there anything parents or kids themselves can do to overcome these obstacles? Absolutely. Below are 3 effective ways to addressing the issue.
1 Cultivate Respect and Passion For Chinese
When someone want to understand a culture, he/she should first show respect for it. Only then can they accept that it is different from their own cultural environment. Approaching the Chinese culture with curiosity and openness fosters a willingness to embrace differences and learn from it. For kids, it is much easier to develop an interest in different cultures. In this case, watching age-appropriate Chinese cartoons and movies is an effective way to gain a passion for Chinese culture. For example, the classic “Boonie Bears” series is not only entertaining but also contains rich Chinese dialogue and cultural elements. Parents can choose these contents together with their children, and through watching, children can improve their language skills and cultivate an interest in Chinese in a relaxed atmosphere.
2 Master Key Elements of Chinese Culture
Highlighting key cultural aspects, communication styles, values for example, is essential because it enhances language contextualization, allowing learners to understand idiomatic expressions and social dynamics that shape communication. For instance, recognizing the indirect communication style often used in Chinese interactions helps students interpret conversations more accurately. In many Western cultures, directness is valued, and expressing opinions openly is common. Conversely, in Chinese culture, indirect communication is often preferred. This means that people may use subtle hints or non-verbal cues rather than stating things outright. Understanding this can help kids understand Chinese culture more effectively, so that they can interpret conversations more accurately.
3 Immerse in A Chinese-Culture Environment
Parents can encourage their children to attend local Chinese cultural festivals. Even if parents do not understand Chinese, they can search online for relevant event information to help their children understand the activities. Children can experience the practical use of Chinese at these events, improving their language skills. Furthermore, encouraging children to communicate with Chinese-speaking friends or family members can help them establish a real language environment. Parents can also arrange for their children to play with friends who speak Chinese, promoting their language practice. In addition, parents can play a crucial role in helping their children overcome challenges in breaking the cultural barrier by identifying specific difficulties, encouraging open communication, and providing practical support. Surround your child with Chinese language resources. This can include labeling household items in Chinese, playing Chinese songs, or watching Chinese movies and shows together. The more they are exposed to the language, the more comfortable they will become.
Overcoming cultural differences is vital for children learning Chinese, as it enriches their language experience and deepens their understanding of the culture behind the context. Embracing these differences allows learners to connect more meaningfully with the language, enhancing their motivation and engagement. Ultimately, this approach not only aids in language acquisition but also cultivates a broader appreciation for Chinese culture, promoting personal growth and cross-cultural understanding.
If you are interested in having your kid learn Chinese, sign up for a free trial class via the form on this page, and we will be happy to help.