Meanwhile, we thought it would be fun to broaden their horizons (never too young to do that) and introduce them to China and its culture. There's a show on TV called Ni*Hao*Kai*Lan and it's aimed at preschoolers. My kids looove it! The show is a play-along, think-along series that weaves together Chinese language and culture, preschool-relatable stories and interactivity. It's kinda like Dora but it has its own spin. Below is a synopsis of the show (found online) and a small video. They will both give you a good idea of the show.
About the show
"Ni*hao!" That means "hi" in Mandarin--and that's how Kai*Lan greets you every day! Kai*Lan Chow is an exuberant Chinese-American preschooler, almost 6, who wants you to come play with her and her best friends. Kai*Lan's world is infused with Chinese culture and is brimming with magical sights and sounds, and everywhere you turn there's something amazing and beautiful to see. Along the way, she and her bilingual buddies speak in English and Mandarin, but they always need kids' help to find creative solutions to the daily dilemmas that come their way!
Click below to see what the show is all about.
My kids have already learned a few words in Mandarin and are using the words at unexpected times. I gave some juice to Liam the other day and he said thank you in Mandarin...very cute :0)
I also recently bought the following DVD:
In this movie, Kai*Lan and her friends take a trip to China to meet Kai*Lan’s favorite Great Aunt (Gu nai nai). While they are there, the little ones learn to face new experiences such as foods they have never tried, clothes they have never worn, and adventures they have never faced before. They learn about a different culture in both city and country settings and meet some pandas. As they do all this, the kids learn how to say the word “happy” and how to introduce themselves in Mandarin.
It's a great movie and my kids love it! It also gives me a break from hearing I'm the Map (Dora) every 3 minutes ;0)
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