6 Considerations When Choosing a Chinese Preschool
Parents have many options when choosing a preschool for their child. Some prefer to give their children bilingual education for its notable benefits.
If you are one of them, what factors should you note when narrowing down the choice of preschools? The right bilingual kindergarten should ensure that the child receives a solid academic foundation and is immersed in the Chinese language and culture. Here are six key factors to consider when selecting a Chinese preschool for your child.
Curriculum structure
The curriculum structure is the backbone of any preschool program, and parents should understand how it supports bilingual education. When evaluating a Chinese bilingual preschool, look for a curriculum that integrates both languages seamlessly throughout the day.
A well-structured bilingual curriculum will balance Chinese and English literacy while offering maths, science, and art subjects. This dual approach ensures your child develops proficiency in both languages concurrently.
Educational philosophy
Every preschool operates under an educational philosophy guiding teaching methods and interactions with children. Understanding the educational philosophy of a bilingual kindergarten will help you determine if it aligns with your values and expectations.
Some preschools might follow a Montessori approach, emphasising independence and hands-on learning, while others might adopt a Reggio Emilia or Waldorf philosophy, focusing on creativity and exploration.
Consider whether the preschool promotes a play-based or structured learning environment and how this fits with your child’s learning style. A philosophy emphasising cultural respect and language development is particularly beneficial in a bilingual setting.
Language immersion
Language immersion is a critical component of a bilingual kindergarten. The extent and method of language immersion can significantly affect your child’s language acquisition and comfort with both languages.
Look for preschools that offer a full or partial immersion program where children are exposed to the Chinese language in various contexts, from instructions and conversations to songs and stories. Ensure there are enough opportunities for children to practise both languages in a supportive environment.
Teacher qualifications
The qualifications of the teachers are crucial in any educational setting, but especially in a bilingual kindergarten where language proficiency and cultural knowledge are key. Inquire about the teachers’ credentials, including their educational background and experience in early childhood education.
Additionally, check if they are native speakers or have advanced proficiency in Chinese. Teachers who are fluent in Chinese can provide a more authentic language experience and better support language development.
Beyond language skills, teachers should be trained in bilingual education methods and culturally responsive teaching. This ensures they can effectively manage a bilingual classroom and foster a respectful, inclusive environment where both languages and cultures are valued.
Cultural environment
A preschool’s cultural environment plays a significant role in a child’s overall development and appreciation of their heritage. In multicultural Singapore, a bilingual preschool should celebrate Chinese holidays and traditions while also fostering an appreciation for other cultures.
The school should create an inclusive environment that respects and embraces diverse cultural backgrounds, promoting a well-rounded appreciation for global diversity among children. This approach helps instil a sense of cultural pride and awareness in your child, preparing them for life in a multicultural society.
Accreditation
Accreditation is an essential indicator of a preschool’s quality and adherence to educational standards. Accredited preschools have undergone rigorous evaluations to ensure they meet high standards in curriculum, teacher qualifications, safety, and more.
When considering a Chinese bilingual preschool, check if it is accredited by recognised educational organisations, such as SPARK. SPARK guides preschools on what they should strive to achieve and provides a standard for them to use in determining the level of their achievement.
A recognised accreditation assures that the preschool maintains a high level of quality and is committed to continuous improvement.
Looking for a bilingual kindergarten near you?
Choosing a preschool is a crucial step in your child’s educational journey. If you’re looking for a high-quality Chinese bilingual preschool, consider enrolling your child in Little Skool House.
We have a dedicated Chinese teacher for each class to ensure consistent language exposure, enhanced cultural learning and individualised support to improve your child’s language proficiency. At the same time, we have designed our bilingual curriculum to be well-rounded, integrating Chinese and English seamlessly for a balanced exposure to both languages.
Little Skool House is a SPARK-accredited kindergarten that follows a child-centred educational philosophy, promoting a love of learning through play and exploration while ensuring academic readiness.
