Anyone trying to master Chinese with their child? How is it going?

[Anonymous]

I am trying to learn another language at this time and I'm having a hard time absorbing anything- mid forties. DD will enter Chinese immersion next year, I would like to learn along with her but I don't see this happening top well.

[Anonymous]

I don't think this is really possible. I would focus on trying to come up to speed on basics, like how the language works, tones, basic characters, etc., so that you know where to look to help your child when she needs it.

But I don't think it's reasonable to expect to "master" Chinese as a second language without taking full-time, formal classes and spending some time in the country.

[Anonymous]

My kindergarten child is currently in a half-day mandarin immersion program. Although I have never studied the Chinese language, I found that as my child learns in school I learn right alongside him. It is challenging when homework is given in chinese, but the teacher gives parents "clues" to help figure it out. It has been enjoyable learning. So far, in 3 weeks "we" have learned our colors, numbers and family members and now are working on shapes. I'm 38 and it hasn't been that hard (especially numbers). Like the PP said, I would focus on the basics to understand the tone as well as how to recognize what the characters mean. There are a lot of resources on the internet, and I also have a couple of free apps on my iphone for practice.

[Anonymous]

Chinese is a tonal language and speaking words in the correct tone is very important. Kids can pick up on the right pronounciation quite easily, but not us adults. Don't confuse your kids by speaking Chinese to them, unless you're getting profEssional instruction yourself.

[Anonymous]

Do you have perfect pitch or are you at least musically inclined? Speaking tonal languages such as Chinese leads to perfect pitch. If you were to start off with perfect pitch or at least a good ear, it would be easier for you to master the tones. I studied Chinese for years and am not musically inclined. I had to pound it into my head while others around me progressed more smoothly. I've witnessed people do really well learning Chinese, shocking themselves. And I've witnessed very smart people fall flat. Maybe you'll do well. Get yourself a good program and a tutor and go for it.