Choosing a Mandarin immersion preschool can be a daunting task for parents. With so many options available, how do you know which school is the right fit for your child? Here are seven factors to consider when making your decision:
Location
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a Mandarin immersion preschool is its location. If you work in the CBD, choosing a school close to your workplace is ideal. This will ensure that you can pick up and drop off your child on time without getting stuck in traffic jams.
Curriculum
The syllabus used by the school to teach Mandarin plays an important role in ensuring that your children become fluent speakers of Mandarin. The Singapore government has set guidelines for teaching topics based on age groupings at each level of the education system (Early Childhood Education Centers, Kindergarten, Primary School, Secondary School). These topics are also taught by most schools offering immersion programs. Some Mandarin immersion preschool in Singapore include additional calligraphy or Chinese poetry recitation modules. You should find out if these are integrated into the curriculum before deciding.
Teacher’s Qualifications
The quality of the teachers is another important consideration when choosing a Mandarin immersion preschool. All teachers in immersion programs in Singapore must be qualified to teach the language. They must also be familiar with the curriculum and engage students in learning through interactive activities.
Class Size
The smaller the class size, the better the learning environment for your child. With fewer students per class, each child will have more opportunities to participate in activities and receive individual attention from the teacher.
Student-teacher Ratio
A low student-teacher ratio is also ideal as it ensures that each child receives enough attention from the teacher. Most Mandarin immersion schools in Singapore maintain a student-teacher ratio of 12:1 or lower.
Parental Involvement
The level of parental involvement at a school is also important. Some schools welcome parents to be actively involved in their children’s learning, while others expect parents to drop off and pick up their children. You should find out what the school’s policy is before deciding.
Fees
Finally, consider the fees charged by the school. Some Mandarin immersion preschools in Singapore can be quite expensive, especially those with a rigorous curriculum. However, a few affordable options are available if you do your research carefully.
Accreditation
Another important consideration is the school’s accreditation. Parents should only consider schools that reputable organizations accredit. These ensure that your child will receive a high-quality education at all times.
Resources and Facilities
You need to visit an immersion school personally before making your final decision. Check out the resources and facilities to ensure that they meet your child’s needs. Some important preschool resources include:
- A good library with a wide range of children’s books in Mandarin
- Science laboratory
- Computers with Chinese language software
- Teachers who are qualified and experienced
- Private spaces for group work and projects
- Outdoor space with a garden and play equipment (e.g., slides, swings, climbing frames)
School’s Philosophy
The school’s philosophy is also something you should consider before making your decision. Some schools focus on teaching Chinese culture and values, while others emphasize teaching language skills. You should decide which is more important to you and your family before making your decision.
Extracurricular Activities
Most preschools in Singapore offer extracurricular activities such as sports and music to keep children engaged during their free time. You should also find out what extracurricular activities are offered by the schools you consider before making your final decision.
Conclusion
There are many factors to consider when choosing a Mandarin immersion preschool for your child, but the most important thing is to do your research thoroughly before deciding. Don’t just choose the first school that comes up on your search engine results page; take some time and visit several schools beforehand to get an idea of what each has to offer its students.
