Schools

Global Exposure for Toddlers Via a New Language

Bamboo Shoots offers a diversified Mandarin preschool program and more.

Colorful masks, creative hand-paintings, and embellished crafts decorate the vibrant rooms of this Westfield pre-school. But unlike any other establishment of its kind, in the area, at Bamboo Shoots you will find everything labeled in Mandarin, Chinese characters. Distinguished as the first, and only, full immersion pre-school program offered in Union County, their innovative curriculum has taken an exciting twist in preparing the children of our community for success.

Almost a year, now, after Bamboo Shoots initially opened its doors to its first class of bilingual toddlers, it is already growing. In addition to it’s diversified Mandarin pre-school program, for children 3 to 6 years in age, Bamboo Shoots will be incorporating two auxiliary programs and an upgraded syllabus this upcoming semester. 

Beginning this September, Bamboo Shoots will now be offering, full-day, full-immersion pre-school courses for children as young as 2 years old. With an activity based, hands-on approach, implemented to stimulate imagination and captivate students, these courses will provide a variety of novel, language immersion, experiences for the young pupils.

Also available this fall will be a unique after school program, offering young students, ages 5 and older, full language development instruction. Beyond the ordinary post-school day child-care services, this program provides daily supplemental Mandarin classes, for students with prior exposure and knowledge of the language. The after-care at Bamboo’s is designed as a comprehensive course for children who have a solid foundation, and wish to continue developing their bilingual mastery.

Moreover, with an updated curriculum Bamboo Shoots is setting an exceptionally high bar in academic preparation for these young preschoolers. The syllabus spans topics from global awareness and connections, to energy conservation, and even technology in society, just to name a few. Focused on a clear and serious agenda, this advanced pre-school is geared to promoting intellectual thinking from the start.

Owner, administrator, and local resident, Danielle Marino has been actively involved in early education for over 15 years now. She selected Mandarin Chinese for her program to promote self-confidence and independence, all while experiencing the joy of learning another language.

“I’m very happy with how well the program has been received. I wanted to create a supporting and nurturing environment, where these young children would not only feel comfortable and enjoy themselves, but somewhere we could begin to shape global power thinkers from an early age,” says the proud owner on the success of her school.

Many might question why Mandarin, Chinese, and to this question Danielle answers, “As educators, we are committed to aiding children in reaching their full potential and providing them with a taste of other cultures. After years of witnessing non-English speaking children rapidly acquire our language, I figured why not gift other children the opportunity of learning an additional language while they’re here. And the benefits of speaking Mandarin in modern day are just tremendous.” 

For more information, visit the school's website: http://www.bambooshootseducation.com/


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