How did you hear about the Pistachio Mandarin Language Centre?
I was looking for Mandarin lessons in Auckland classes for beginners so I went on the Internet and did a Google search. I was given a few options to choose from so I did quite a bit of research around location, reviews from students and accessibility.
I liked the fact that the Pistachio Mandarin Language Centre website not only had a lot of great information but the photos showed the students doing a lot of different activities and they were having fun. I also liked the video that was a really good introduction around the mandarin classes and altogether this helped me make a decision.
Who are the Mandarin lessons for?
The Mandarin lessons are for my two children who are aged 8 and 5.
Before lockdown the children were attending the Saturday morning classes in Auckland but since lockdown have been connecting with their teacher and classmates via Zoom. This was good in a way because it meant I could hear what was going on in the lessons.
At first; as you would expect with quite young learners, it was a bit loud as you had 7 or 8 children all trying to communicate at the same time but now ground rules have been established and it’s a lot more settled.
What are some of your children’s favourite activities in the lessons?
My 8 year old really enjoys the Kahoot quizzes where each student can log in on their own device and they race against each other as the quiz counts down from 20. They get asked questions such as how you would say certain words and sentences so it jogs their recall and helps them retain information.
My 5 year old really enjoys the singing which helps once again with recall and by repetition, the words and phrases are reinforced whilst they’re having lots of fun just singing a simple song.
How do you think they’re coming along with their Mandarin?
I think my older child would benefit from having new stuff introduced a bit quicker but in saying that it is a balancing act so I appreciate that as well. Kids also learn at different paces so just for my child I’d like to see the older one challenged a little bit more to keep them engaged and interested.
Would you recommend Pistachio Mandarin Language Centre?
Yes definitely, the teachers are doing a really good job and the children both enjoy the lessons so I’m pleased with that.