Nǐ hǎo ma? Your child can learn more than just this one phrase at the best Mandarin classes for kids in Hong Kong.
Cantonese might be the local lingo here, but with some 1 billion native speakers—and many more who have studied it as a second or third language—roughly 1/7th of the world’s population speaks Mandarin, making it a very useful language to know. Especially if you want to be able to travel to places like Shenzhen or read books by Chinese authors. If you want to give your kids a leg-up in the years to come, enrol them in one of the best Mandarin classes for kids in Hong Kong and they’ll be conversant before you know it.
The best Mandarin classes for kids in Hong Kong
1. Linguabox Group
An online Mandarin learning platform that caters to students of all ages, Linguabox offers bespoke tutoring services that are tailored to the learning styles and goals of each individual. It’s led by certified native Chinese instructors who’ve had over 30 years of experience, and are passionate about their students’ success. During the 25- or 50-minute lessons, the teachers at Linguabox use a blend of multimedia resources such as videos, audio recordings, and interactive exercises to create an immersive language learning environment.
In addition to providing homework support and guiding pupils through their school curricula, Linguabox offers excellent resources for HSK test preparation. From personalised plans and guidance to comprehensive study materials, students are given the essential tools to excel in their exams. Using the professional and interactive online education platform, busy students can enjoy flexible scheduling benefits on top of an engaging learning experience. The dedicated teachers at Linguabox are even available to answer any questions and provide feedback outside of class time. With Linguabox, your kids will be able to master Mandarin effectively and enjoyably!
Linguabox Group, Suite A, 12/F, Ritz Plaza, 122 Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 9685 8939
2. Mini Mandarins Learning Centre
Your kids might not even realise they’re at a language class at Mini Mandarins! With a focus on teaching functional Mandarin through interactive activities, role play, and lots of fun, the language centre creates a dynamic environment that allows kids to learn through situational teaching. Classes are limited to just four to six students, which means everyone gets personal attention – and did we mention that all teachers are native Mandarin speakers? The centre offers several programmes, including the Mini Tots Programme for young learners, Academic Series that focuses on Pin Yin, character recognition, oral comprehension, and even special workshops for school interviews.
Mini Mandarins Learning Centre, Room 202-205, Wilson House, 19-27 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2320 1128
3. Mullberry House Academy
Technically, Mulberry House is a pre-school, but it’s a great spot for kids to learn Mandarin. The Academy offers an immersive MandarinSmart programme for kids as young as eight months, which means your little one will be practically nattering fluently from the moment they start speaking. Through the specialised curriculum, kids are taught to think, read, write, and speak in Mandarin through experiential learning in small groups. Sessions make learning the language fun and easy through a mix of music, stories, and playtime that keep students engaged. There are options for one-on-one online classes available, but you can attend in-person sessions if preferred. There are different levels available, from Accompanied Playgroup through Enrichment Programs catering to kids from several months through 12 years old, so you’ll find a class perfect for your child.
Mulberry House Academy has two campuses in Central and Wong Chuk Hang
4. iMandarinChinese
Providing the ultimate flexibility by offering online courses, iMandarinChinese is based in Hong Kong but can accommodate students in any time zone. All teachers here have degrees to teach Mandarin and at least three years of experience. While most of the lessons are private, arrangements can be made for classes of two for young children. Build your child’s confidence and engagement in learning Mandarin with courses tailored to their needs like the popular Children Beginner Course, IB Chinese Course, Travel Mandarin Course, and more. Reach learning goals from the comfort of your own home.
Find out more about iMandarinChinese.
5. Hong Kong Institute of Languages
The Hong Kong Institute of Languages caters to kids from the age of 1.5 through 12 – enrol them young, and they’ll be fluent before you know it. There’s a wide range of options available so you can pick exactly what your child needs, from private or group classes to programmes for immersion or exam prep. Kids can enrol in Creative Language, Language in Action, or Exam/School Interview Prep courses. If students show a flair for the language (or perhaps just want to improve), they can even attend enrichment courses, including holiday workshops, drama and nature classes, and more. And, if Mandarin isn’t enough for your little overachiever, the centre offers classes in a slew of other languages, including French, German, Spanish, and Japanese.
Hong Kong Institute of Languages, 6/F, Wellington Plaza, 56-58 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2877 6160
6. Beijing Mandarin
Whether your child is just beginning their journey with Mandarin or is already conversant and wants to brush up their skills, they’ll find exactly what they need at Beijing Mandarin. For young tots, the centre offers introductory programmes like Baby First Chinese and My Fun Chinese. Those with some Mandarin abilities already under their belt can opt for classes that will take their language skills to the next level, such as the My Smart Chinese class for teens or exam prep sessions. To help students fast-track their learning, Beijing Mandarin uses its proprietary SREM methodology which allows kids to learn Mandarin up to three times faster than conventional methods, meaning they’ll be parle-ing like a pro in no time.
Beijing Mandarin, 23/F, Winsan Tower, 98 Thomson Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong, p. 2865 1660
7. Yifan
Ideal for little learners, Yifan offers a Mandarin for Munchkins programme that caters to toddlers from one to three years. Each class has just nine students to ensure the teacher’s full attention, while an emphasis on fun learning – read: lots of singalongs, storytime, and games – means kids can learn quickly and casually. Older children can take the Mandarin Builder classes that offer a little more independence in learning. For a full immersion, Yifan also offers holiday camps and playgroups, along with Chinese calligraphy, ink drawing, and cultural experiences.
Yifan has multiple locations across Hong Kong.
[This article was originally published in April 2021 and updated in 2023 by Min Ji Park.]
