Activity Guide

Now Your Child Can Learn Mandarin Without A Tutor

Published by SchoolAdvisor | Apr 26, 2021

Mandarin can be a real head-scratcher since it requires you to learn both the spoken and written language. Being a compulsory subject in most international schools, it is also the language parents prefer their children to learn. However, retaining the knowledge learnt in language class can be difficult for those who do not practise using the language at home.

Studies have shown that young children are highly receptive to language learning and articulative expression. Learning language will be more fun and relatively easy when learning through modern technology.

Here are a few easy-to-use apps you can download to practise Mandarin with your child.

1. HelloChinese

While being a fun and engaging app for beginners to learn Chinese Mandarin, HelloChinese uses effective methodologies to help beginners quickly learn the language to a conversational level. This app applies speech recognition and character handwriting technologies for a more fun and easy learning experience.

HelloChinese features a well-designed Pinyin (Chinese pronunciation) course for beginners. On top of that, this app allows your child to learn pronunciation, character stroke order, vocabulary and grammar in an interactive way. HelloChinese is free but it also comes with Premium and Premium + which allow users to unlock more interesting features like a smart review system and training games.

To download on:

Google Play Link, click here

App Store Link, click here

2. ChineseSkill

With beginners in mind, ChineseSkill is developed for users to learn the Chinese Mandarin language in multiple ways, either through speaking, writing or reading. This app includes 500+ fun and engaging mini-lessons that will teach your child everything from Chinese characters to Chinese grammar.

ChineseSkill features game-like interactions where the lessons and challenges are presented in a gamified style to give an interactive and fun learning experience for your child. This app is certainly a catch simply because your child can learn without internet connection after downloading as it provides offline learning. Old courses from ChineseSkill are free but subscription is required if you want to access new courses.

To download on:

Google Play Link, Click here

App Store Link, Click here

3. Bravolol

Your kids will surely enjoy learning Mandarin Chinese language using Bravolol as the app brings into play a speaking parrot to interact with its users. The parrot will work together with them to practise their Mandarin Chinese speaking and listening skills.

No internet connection required, Bravolol features commonly used Mandarin Chinese phrases and words to allow a smooth learning experience for beginners. You can also worry less about your child straining their eyes in front of their phones or tablets as this app comes with a customisable font size feature. The free version of this app will be enough to get your child by as there are not many additional features inthe premium version.

To download on:

Google Play Link, Click here

App Store Link, Click here

4. LuvLingua

LuvLingua caters to beginner and intermediate levels. The app promotes learning through games to help learners remember new words in a fast & fun way. The games come in different styles to accommodate different learning styles such as picture quiz, listening quiz, word guessing and animation game. LuvLingua is designed by language teachers who are experts in the field and have a strong Mandarin Chinese foundation to train your child to learn the language with confidence.

A special feature of the app is the phrasebook which is sorted into categories containing everyday conversation along with core words and phrases of Chinese Mandarin. The free version of this app has an adequate number of sets and games to play with but with the premium version, you can unlock all content available on the app.

To download on:

Google Play Link, Click Here

App Store Link, Click Here

5. Duolingo

With over 500 million total users around the world, Duolingo is the most popular app to learn language. According to TIME Magazine, “Duolingo may hold the secret to the future of education.” This app has a science-based teaching methodology proven to foster long-term language retention.

What makes Duolingo a popular language learning app is its simple and user friendly interface. The “less is more” elements used in the app will be easily navigated by your child so they can have a pleasant experience of learning the Mandarin language. Honestly, the free version of this app has all that you need to learn the language. However, if you wish to have ads removed and lessons downloaded onto your devices, you can opt for the monthly subscription.

To download on:

Google Play Link , Click here

App Store Link, Click here

How to effectively use the apps with your child:

1. Try out each app that you are interested in yourself.

2. Introduce the chosen app to your child by playing it with them.

3. Try using the new words that your child has learnt within the next 24 hours. This will help them retain the lessons and also teaches them the right context to use the words.

Are you serious about your child learning Mandarin? Chinese schools are becoming popular with many parents these days. Check out:

A look at Chinese Schools in Malaysia

Facts or Misconceptions About Chinese Schools

What Kids Think about Switching from Chinese Schools to International Schools?

What Parents Really Think About Chinese Schools vs International Schools