In Singapore’s bilingual education system, many children whose first language isn’t Chinese may lack the desire to continue learning Chinese. Without the pressure of having to take Chinese exams, they might be tempted to give up on learning the language. To address this issue, this article outlines 4 effective strategies to help children find the motivation to learn Chinese.
1. Utilize Localized Learning Materials
Choose Chinese learning resources that feature Singaporean landmarks, culture, and daily life. When the materials include familiar elements such as local foods or common Singaporean scenes, children find them more engaging and relevant. This approach makes the learning experience more relatable and enjoyable, and often proves more effective than simply drilling Chinese language knowledge.
2. Embrace Multicultural Integration
Show your child the importance of Chinese in Singapore’s multicultural society by participating in local festivals like Mid-Autumn Festival and Chinese New Year. These celebrations offer rich cultural experiences that can spark your child’s interest in learning Chinese. Encourage your child to join these activities to help them understand the cultural significance and practical use of the language. Additionally, explain how widely Chinese is used globally and how many people are learning it today. Emphasize that knowing Chinese can provide significant advantages for their future, while falling behind in this skill might put them at a disadvantage compared to others.
3. Participate in Local Chinese Cultural Activities
Engage in activities centered around Singapore’s Chinese culture. Many community centers in Singapore offer events and programs showcasing Chinese traditions. Participating in these activities can help children learn about local Chinese culture, which is presented in various forms such as music and performances. These experiences can be particularly appealing to non-Chinese children, significantly boosting their motivation to learn Chinese.
4. Implement a Reward System
When parents can’t be directly involved in their child’s Chinese learning, establishing a reward system can be highly effective. For non-Chinese children in Singapore, parents can set specific Chinese learning goals and offer tangible rewards when these goals are met, such as a trip to the Singapore Zoo or a favorite toy. This approach not only boosts their enthusiasm for learning Chinese but also helps them see the real benefits of their efforts.
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.