Our Program

At Mandarin Schoolhouse, we specialize in teaching Mandarin Chinese through a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. Children learn through engaging activities such as art, music, movement, and storytelling—while rooted in Montessori principles that nurture the whole child. We place a strong emphasis on practical life skills and social-emotional development.

Our mission is to cultivate kind, confident, and curious individuals who are inspired to be lifelong learners.

Program Highlights

Small Group, Big Impact

• A low 1:5 teacher-student ratio allows for individualized attention and meaningful relationships.

• Children engage deeply in activities without being rushed through a rigid schedule.

• Every child is seen, known, and loved for who they are—our approach nurtures the whole child.

Thematic, Child-Centered Curriculum

• Learning themes evolve based on children's interests, creating relevant and meaningful experiences.

• Themes are thoughtfully integrated across language arts, math, science, and cultural studies for a well-rounded education.

Bilingual Language & Literacy

• Daily instruction is mainly in Mandarin Chinese to promote an immersive environment.

• Multiple read-aloud sessions in both English and Mandarin Chinese throughout the day promote listening, comprehension, and vocabulary development.

• Four- and five-year-olds receive individualized reading instruction, with focused exposure to phonics and Chinese characters.

• Songs, music, and playful activities make language learning joyful and memorable.

Cultural Celebrations

• We honor both Chinese and American holidays as part of our curriculum.

• Chinese New Year is explored through a month-long study of traditions, stories like The Legend of Nian, and activities such as making dumplings and lanterns. 

• We also celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other festivities that foster cultural appreciation and pride.

Morning Meeting

• A daily teacher-led gathering where children greet one another, share thoughts, and build community.

• We review the calendar, record the weather, sing songs, and introduce the day’s lesson—all while practicing listening, speaking, and social interaction skills.

Meals Provided

• We serve a fresh, well-balanced lunch and healthy snacks each day.

• Children and teachers dine together, practicing table manners and enjoying foods from a variety of cultures.

Food Exploration

• Children cook, bake, or discover a new food together at least once a week.

• Cooking is a multi-sensory learning experience that includes following directions, measuring, reading recipes, and tasting new foods.

Gardening

• Our vegetable patch and cut flower beds offer a hands-on opportunity for children to connect with nature.

• Kids plant, water, harvest, and often cook with—the fruits of their labor.

• Garden-to-table favorites include basil pesto, rainbow tomato salad, kale chips, and lavender oat cookies.

Outdoor Play

• We believe nature is the best teacher and that children learn so much through observing and exploring the world around them.

• Outdoor time is full of imaginative, seasonal experiences—raking and jumping in leaves, building snowmen, making mud pies, and tasting juicy cherry tomatoes straight from the vine.

Practical Life Skills

• Children learn to care for themselves (e.g., dressing, hygiene) and their environment (e.g., cleaning, organizing).

• These foundational skills support independence and confidence.

Social-Emotional Learning

• We create a caring community where children learn to express their feelings, resolve conflicts, and build kind friendships.

• Children develop emotional awareness and practice tools to navigate social situations respectfully and thoughtfully.