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.
Located off-site, AAI recommends several new Chinese classes in the West Michigan area.
Please see below for class options in your area.
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.
Class minimum: 4
Class maximum: 24
Class dates: Classes will meet 6 times. Please choose from one of the following sessions:
Session One:
Mondays
March 12—April 23
6-7pm
Session Two:
Mondays and Thursdays
June 18—July 12
9:30-10:30am
Session Three:
Mondays and Thursdays
July 16—August 2
9:30-10:30am
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.
Class minimum: 3
Class maximum: 20
Class dates: Classes will meet 6 times. Please choose from one of the following sessions:
Session One:
Mondays
March 12—April 23
7:10-8:10pm
Session Two:
Mondays and Thursdays
June 18—July 12
10:40-11:40am
Session Three:
Mondays and Thursdays
July 16—August 2
10:40-11:40am
Both classes will be held in room 113 at Cityside Middle School, located at 320 E. Main, Zeeland, MI, 49464 and will be taught by Ren-Ai Chinese Language and Culture School instructors.
The cost for the language and culture class is $38 per student for Zeeland residents and $50 for non-residents. The textbook may be purchased at the first class for an additional ten dollars.
The cost for the art class is $48 for Zeeland residents and $60 for non-residents.
Registration deadline for both classes: One week prior to the class start date
To register for 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!
Class dates: Mondays, September 10–November 26 (12 weeks)
Beginner Kids Class
8–12 year olds
6:15–7pm
Beginner Adults Class
For ages 13 years and above
7:15–8pm
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!
Class dates: Thursdays, September 13–October 18 (6 weeks)
Children 4–7 years old and parents
9:15–10am
Classes will be held at the YMCA of Belmont, located at 6555 Jupiter Ave., Belmont, MI 49306.
The cost of the language and culture class is $82 for YMCA members and $112 for guests.
The parent/child class is $41 for YMCA members and $63 for guests. The cost includes one parent/guardian and one child. Additional family members receive a 10% discount.
A textbook can be purchased for $10.
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.
Class date: Tuesday, August 14
Time: 9am–12pm
Cost:
Members: $17
Guests: $35
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.
Fall Semester:
The fall semester starts Sunday, 9/16/07.
Tuition—Early Registration Discount:
$300/year if paid by 6/15/2007
$175/semester if paid after 7/15/2007
Textbook/material fees additional
Time: Sundays from 12:30pm-4:30pm
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.
