Even if you can’t make it to San Francisco’s Chinese New Year Parade or Community Fair, there are still plenty of ways to learn about Chinese New Year and the rich Chinese history in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Below are a few websites and other family-friendly resources for learning more.
* Local author and father, Oliver Chin, wrote a delightful picture book series featuring the animals from the Chinese Zodiac. Young children will enjoy reading a story about each animal. Year of the Tiger is the fifth book in the series. Preview “Year of the Tiger” at A Story Before Bedtime or look for it at your local bookstore or library.
* Take a field trip to Angel Island by ferry to learn about the Chinese immigrants who came through the Angel Island Immigration Station. Watch a video about the Immigration Station and listen to poetry written by detainees on KQED’s website.
*Learn more about Chinese New Year and Chinese Traditions while exploring the following sites:
Explore Chinese New Year traditions
Learn about the Lunar Calendar
Print out decorations and learn to make your own paper dragon or New Year banner
Make Fortune Cookies (Even though these don’t really come from China)
* Explore traditional stories online:
*Think about learning Mandarin together as a family. Many programs are available through local community centers and private enrichment schools for children such as Language in Action.
Local parent and cofounder of Aha! Chinese, Janet Lin Lawson, has created an award-winning learning kit for introducing basic Mandarin to young children. The kit includes a storybook, audio CD, DVD, flashcards and a parent and educator guide.
* Visit the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco to explore both the art and history of Asia. This year, The Asian Art Museum is sponsoring a year-long festival to celebrate Shanghai, San Francisco’s sister city. The Shanghai exhibition (at the museum through September 5) explores the history and culture of Shanghai through its art. The museum offers several family and teen programs.
For more info: Have a suggestion or comment? Please leave a comment below or email me.
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