I like using videos to supplement foreign language learning. While they aren’t comparable to interaction with a native speaker, they do provide a pseudo-immersion environment when an entire show is presented in the target language. I found familiar children’s shows to be ideal for this – even for older kids. Familiar children’s shows typically have a recognizable story line and characters that are known, so the focus can be on the words spoken. Also, the simplicity of language found in shows for younger children make it a bit easier than trying to watch a more age-appropriate show.
The best place I’ve found to access children’s videos in Mandarin is Youtube. Many of them can be hard to find though. I’m sharing some play lists and links of familiar shows that are in Mandarin. All together there are over 30 hours of videos. More can be found by exploring some of the recommended videos when watching videos on these lists.
Peppa Pig Playlist (16 videos, about 8 hours)
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (26 videos, about 7.5 hours)
Bob the Builder (12 videos, about 1.5 hours)
Dora the Explorer (1 video, 1 episode)
Winnie the Pooh (40 videos, 7 hours)
My Friends Tigger and Pooh Super Sleuth Christmas Movie (1 video, 45 minutes)
My Friends Tigger and Pooh: Tigger and Pooh and Musical Too (1 video, 1 hour)
Thomas and Friends (80 videos, about 12 hours)
Berenstain Bears (19 videos, about 5 hours)
If you have any other links, please share in the comments!
Do you have any tv shows that would appeal to older kids?
No, I like to use the younger ones (even when they aren’t age-appropriate) because the language is more simple.