Immersive Mandarin Summer Program

July 7 – August 15, for children ages 2-15!

Early bird discount! Sign up before Monday, June 10, 2024 and receive a $50 discount.
Sibling Discount! Each sibling enjoys additional 2 hours of private tutoring class ($200 value)

Join us for six weeks of immersive Chinese language and culture in an authentic classroom experience at China Institute in America’s “Immersive Mandarin Summer Program for Children”. Located in the heart of Downtown Manhattan, students will gain an in-depth understanding of China’s rich cultural heritage through the lens of its stunning geographical landforms and waterways. At a time when global leaders emphasize climate awareness, this program also fosters a deeper appreciation for the planet’s natural wonders. Open to all language proficiencies, students will explore scientific innovations, renowned poetry, and cherished traditions inspired by China’s most iconic landscapes. Every week, teachers will highlight the cultural significance and unique attributes of a major geographical feature, including the Gobi Desert, Yangtze River, Yellow River, Mount Tai, Yellow Mountain, and Hulunbuir Grasslands.

Students will be appropriately placed in mixed age groups of similar language levels and gain fluency in reading, writing and speaking amongst their peers! Teachers will develop a dynamic and interactive classroom involving hands-on activities through a student-centered approach involving art, science, storytelling, etc! Our accredited educators are equipped to teach students at any language level to encourage students to gain confidence and make significant progress in Mandarin through this unique perspective into China.

The curriculum is enriched with dynamic workshops led by local artists and experts, offering hands-on experiences like dumpling folding, traditional musical instrument demonstrations, shadow puppet theater, and much more!
Flexible Scheduling! We accommodate families’ summer plans by offering weekly enrollment options, with the choice of half day or full day classes.

Read our summer program blog here, an example of a typical day schedule here and watch testimonials by parents here.

Age Groups

Mandarin Munchkins & Toddlers (ages 2-5)

Through music, movement, games, and other interactive, teacher-led activities, toddlers will gain impactful early exposure to Chinese language and culture in an immersive language classroom. Our teachers are talented and creative early-childhood educators, with experience engaging with young children through clear and direct communication, fun songs and dances, interactive animation, and more. Young children will learn to respond to basic instructions and use simple expressions in Chinese while continuing to develop critical social and emotional skills through communication and interaction with their teacher and classmates.

Children (ages 5-10 years)

In an immersive language environment, students will be sorted into learning groups based on each individual’s language level and age group. By actively participating in the exploration of interactive, educational themes, students will deepen their knowledge and understanding of China’s culture and language. Moreover, students will explore the contemporary cultures of the cities through foods, traditions and customs, traditional and modern architecture, and historical sites. In addition to becoming familiar with topics relating to each session, students will learn to express their feelings, preferences, and opinions in Chinese, according to their individual language levels.

Pre-teen and Teens (ages 10-15 years)

With a student-centered approach to learning, students will gain confidence and further their knowledge of Chinese language by engaging in dynamic language classes paired with a theme-based curriculum featuring cultural workshops lead by local artisans. In addition to building students’ reading and writing skills based on a series of topics related to the weekly theme, students will participate in group-based activities and peer discussions to promote social and conversational skills. Students will be confident in their ability to read advanced passages independently and write paragraphs and short essays in Chinese.

Registration

July 7 – August 15, for children ages 2-15

See Our Testimonials

Lingyi Chen

2023

Everyone was great to my son during the summer program. This was his first time in a school. The teachers there were very patient and helped him adapt to the environment in just a few days. He is very happy. I'm also happy to see him learning more Chinese words, especially some that involve things he doesn't often do with us. This has been a great addition to his Chinese learning.

Joseph B.

Summer 2021 – Fall 2022

I think it is incredibly important for people to learn Chinese these days. Children should learn when they can because it’s a lot easier for them to learn a language when they are young. My daughter seems to be learning a lot from the classes at China Institute. She was correcting my Chinese. Well, this is a definitely a positive direction! Let’s keep going with this!

Vincent R.

Summer 2022

I was told the best Chinese language classes in NYC are at the China Institute. So I registered to take both weekly classes AND private classes. The staff and teachers are truly professional and absolutely first class! I am forever grateful!

Wilson L.

Summer 2021

My daughter made friends at China Institute’s summer program. She’s always smiling. She’s happy. She talks about what they did in class, so I know she’s having a good time. The amazing thing is like we would come home and she start speaking to us in Chinese. If you are interested in Chinese culture, and China Institute is a great place to learn more.

Ashley Shaw Scott Adjaye

Summer 2022-2024, traveling from Ghana

We are so grateful for the China Institute's Summer Program. Every year it deepens our daughter's cultural connection to China and her understanding of Mandarin. The programming and curriculum is thoughtful and engaging. I highly recommend it!

FAQ

Will you take the students to China?

This year, we offer a two-week study tour for American high school students to connect with their Chinese peers, creating opportunities for deep and meaningful dialogue. We are accepting applications until Monday, March 31, 2025 5:00 PM (ET)

For more information, please visit our Youth Leadership Trip page. https://chinainstitute.org/school/youth-leadership-in-china/

What’s special about your program?

We are the longest running immersive Mandarin summer program in New York City that offers young students maximum exposure to authentic Chinese language and culture through theme-based curriculum. Housed in the School of Chinese Studies at China Institute in America since 1933, our goal is to strengthen students’ language skills while deepening their understanding of Chinese cultural traditions and values and applying it to new development in China today. We invite cultural specialists and artists join our program’s teaching team to further enrich our curriculum through special workshops i.e. Chinese music instruments, shadow puppet theatre, cooking classes, etc.

What discounts do you offer?

Early bird discount! Sign up before Friday, June 6, 2025, and receive a $100 discount, reflected in the check out page.

Sibling Discount! Each sibling enjoys additional 2 hours of private tutoring class ($200 value)

What’s more! We give additional private tutoring hours!
Book 2 full-day sessions enjoy additional 4 hours of private tutoring class ($400 value)
Book 3 full-day sessions enjoy additional 6 hours of private tutoring class ($600 value)
Book 2 half-day sessions enjoy additional 2 hours of private tutoring class ($200 value)
Book 3 half-day sessions enjoy additional 4 hours of private tutoring class ($400 value)

Sessions

Week 1: July 7 – July 11 长江 Yangtze River

The Yangtze River, the longest in China and third largest in the world, has shaped Chinese culture for thousands of years. Students will explore the history of rice cultivation, traditional stories and poems inspired by the river, and the ways the invention of the canal connected ancient cities for trade and cultural exchange. Learning about the Yangtze offers a deeper understanding of Chinese language, with key vocabulary and expressions tied to its importance, and the cultural traditions that continue to thrive today.

Week 2: July 14 – July 18 黄河 Yellow River

The Huang He, or Yellow River, is known as the "Mother River of China" for its central role in the birth of Chinese civilization. Its fertile plains supported early farming communities, giving rise to China's first dynasties. Students will learn about the river’s significance in Chinese history, explore legends and folk tales linked to it, and discover traditional poems celebrating its power and beauty. Through the Yellow River (Huang He), students will expand their Mandarin vocabulary and gain insight into the cultural practices and innovations that emerged from this cradle of civilization.

Week 3: July 21 – July 25 泰山 Mountain Tai

Mount Tai, one of China’s most sacred mountains, has been a place of worship and inspiration for thousands of years. Emperors climbed its slopes to perform rituals honoring the heavens, and poets and artists captured its beauty in their works. Students will learn about Mount Tai’s role in Chinese history, its connection to traditional beliefs, and its influence on famous poems and paintings. Through this exploration, they’ll enrich their Mandarin skills with key phrases and deepen their understanding of China’s cultural heritage.

Week 4: July 28 – August 1 黄山 Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)

Yellow Mountain, or Huangshan, is famous for its stunning scenery, with misty peaks, ancient pine trees, and hot springs inspiring countless artists and poets throughout Chinese history. Known as a symbol of natural beauty, it has been celebrated in traditional paintings and literature. Students will learn about the cultural significance of Huangshan, explore stories and art inspired by its landscapes, and practice Mandarin through vocabulary and expressions tied to nature and creativity. This journey will deepen their appreciation for the mountain’s role in shaping Chinese culture.

Week 5: August 4 – August 8 戈壁沙漠 Gobi Desert

The Gobi Desert, one of the largest deserts in the world, has played an important role in China's history as a gateway for trade along the ancient Silk Road. Camel caravans are utilized in this barren wasteland specifically to assist those attempting to cross the desert. Students will learn about the Gobi’s connection to Chinese history and folklore, explore its role in trade and exploration, and expand their Mandarin skills with vocabulary related to deserts and journeys. This exploration highlights the resilience and adaptability of life in this remarkable region.

Week 6: August 11 – August 15 呼伦贝尔大草原 Hulunbuir Grasslands

The Hulunbuir Grasslands, known for their vast open spaces and rich biodiversity, are one of the most beautiful grassland areas in China. These grasslands have been home to nomadic cultures for centuries, shaping traditions like horseback riding, herding, and vibrant festivals. Students will explore the cultural heritage of the nomadic people, including their music, stories, and close connection to nature. Through this, they’ll learn Mandarin vocabulary tied to grassland life and traditions, gaining a deeper appreciation for this unique and vital part of China’s cultural landscape.